Saddam Hussein Sentenced to Death

Former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein has been sentenced to execution by hanging for his role in the 1982 atrocities in Dujail, Iraq. Under Iraqi law, the sentence will automatically be appealed to the Iraqi High Tribunal. Once the tribunal issues their decision, the sentence must be carried out within 30 d. As Hussein must stand trial for other offenses, his execution may be delayed until these proceedings are complete.

While some may cast some doubt on the fairness of the judicial process, there is no doubt that Hussein committed the offense for which he's been convicted. Based on the magnitude of his crimes, his death sentence is a justifiable response. However, care must be taken to impose his sentence in a way which denies him any appearance of martyrdom and therefore provide a rallying point for Saddamist insurgents. Nevertheless, his sentence must be carried out to provide justice for the thousands of lives which have been destroyed by this brutal dictator.