Defense Teams Leave Khmer Rouge Tribunal Hearing

Defense lawyers for Khmer Rouge leaders Nuon Chea and Khieu Samphan boycotted an opening hearing for the two men on Friday, leaving the courtroom and putting the second and final phase of the trial for the two men in limbo. Nuon Chea’s team has asked for a disqualification of four judges, while Khieu Samphan’s team has asked for an appeal on an initial judgment against him. Neither request has yet been heard, but tribunal officials say they will be. It remains unclear what will happen next with the hearing. (Kong Sothanarith, Phnom Penh)