Rights trial to start on March 14

JAKARTA: The first hearing of an ad hoc human rights trial will commence on March 14, despite the absence of regulations on witness protection, rehabilitation, and compensation for the victims of human rights abuses, a judge said on Friday.

The trial was previously feared to be facing a delay, pending the issuance of the regulations.

Judge Andi Samsan Nganro said that the court would conduct two hearings on the same day, presenting two defendants -- former East Timor Governor Abilio Jose Soares and former East Timor Police Chief Brig. Gen. Timbul Silaen -- respectively.

The two have been charged with genocide and crimes against humanity, which carries the death penalty.

"We are ready to conduct the hearings," Andi said after attending a meeting at the Supreme Court on Friday.

A four-member panel of judges, presided over by Judge Marni Emy Mustafa, would try Abilio's case, while Judge Andi would lead the hearing of Timbul.

The third trial case would likely involve five defendants, including former Covalima regent Herman Sedyono. -- JP