The Swiss court is currently considering canceling the trial of Rifaat al-Assad – the uncle of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, due to his failing health. Rifaat, aged 87, was set to face charges for alleged war crimes dating back to 1982 when he was a military commander.
Rifaat al-Assad, who is often dubbed the “Butcher of Hama,” is accused of ordering brutal attacks that led to the deaths of thousands in the Syrian city of Hama and this trial, under Switzerland’s universal jurisdiction, would have been a rare chance to hold him accountable for his many crimes against humanity.
But now, with the court rethinking the trial, justice seekers mag go without getting their much deserved justice.
Officials have said Rifaat’s health has deteriorated to the extent that he can’t travel to Switzerland or participate in the proceedings. Now, the court has asked all parties involved to weigh in on whether to proceed or drop the case. A decision is expected by mid-January.
Rifaat has meanwhile, denied the allegations, claiming he had no part in the atrocities. His lawyers have also argued that his health issues make it impossible for him to stand trial.
Although he had lived in exile for decades, mostly in France, Rifaat returned to Syria in 2021 after a failed coup attempt against his brother, Hafez al-Assad, Bashar’s father.
This case is notable because it represents a push for justice for victims of the Assad regime’s brutal rule.
The likelihood that this trial may be cancelled has has sparked mixed reactions, with some seeing it as a setback for justice to reign and others say it is a necessary step given Rifaat’s condition.
