Nairobi, Kenya - Former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo is due to face prosecutors at the International Criminal Court (ICC) Tuesday to challenge the evidence against him at a confirmation of charges hearing.
The former Ivorian leader, who was arrested and transferred to the ICC after losing his grip on power in the West African nation, faces four counts of crimes against humanity charges.
The confirmation of charges hearing is not a formal trial, but is usually a hearing at the pre-trial stage to determine whether the prosecutor's evidence is adequate to sustain a full trial.
Defence lawyers for Gbagbo have in the past challenged his continued detention at the court, citing his deteriorating health, but the judges have confirmed, based on evidence, that he is fit to stand trial.
His plea for release on bail have also been opposed on the grounds that he would escape.
The hearing starting on Tuesday would last slightly over a week, during which both sides would challenge the case formula.
Prosecutors allege there is adequate ground to believe the former Ivorian leader, the first former African leader to face the court on war crimes and crimes against humanity, planned and executed a violent plot against supporters of Alassane Ouattara after losing an election.
Pana 19/02/2013