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Genocide accusations filed against Chad’s president

A Senegalese tribunal overseeing the case against the former president of Chad confirmed that it has filed accusations of genocide against Chad's current president Idriss Deby.

The Extraordinary African Chambers confirmed last week that a case had been filed against Mr Deby but would not comment any further.

Lawyer Mbaye Jacques Ndiaye said that Mr Deby, who overthrew Hissene Habre in 1990, has been accused of "genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and torture, at the initiative of some victims".

"President Deby personally committed wrongdoing -- acts of torture. He personally killed individuals. These are people who were tortured, who were executed, burned alive and thrown to wild animals," he added.

Mr Deby’s lawyers said the accusations were "a fantastical complaint," that was aimed at "undermining the image" of the president.

The claims come as the landmark trial of Mr Habre, who is accused of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and torture, is due to start on Monday.

“After 25 years of campaigning and 45 days waiting patiently, the survivors will finally get their day in court,” said Reed Brody, counsel at Human Rights Watch.

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