Saddam returns to court on hunger strike

Saddam Hussein

BAGHDAD - Saddam Hussein appeared in court on Tuesday as hearings resumed in his trial, yelling old political slogans and saying he had not eaten for three days.

Wearing a black suit, the former leader stood before the chief judge and shouted "God is great" and "long live great Arab nation".

Saddam said on Monday he was forced to return to court after staging a two-day boycott.

"We have been on hunger strike for three days to protest the way they brought us to court," said the former president.

His half brother Barzan al-Tikriti, who has said he has cancer and needs medical treatment, looked weak but had the energy to shout praise for Saddam's toppled Baath party.

"I sacrifice my mother and father for the great Baath party," said Barzan.

- REUTERS