CCTV9英语新闻：Trial of ousted Egyptian president postponed due to security concerns

The final trial of ousted Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak began on Thursday in Cairo. But soon after the session opened, it was postponed. Security forces are reluctant to move the former president to the court in central Cairo. But the trial requires his presence. 

 

Justice Ahmed Abdel Kawi announced the delay. Sparking anger among the supporters of Hosni Mubarak. This trial should have started in November. But security forces say it's not safe to bring him to central Cairo. All his previous trials were held at the highly secure Police Academy in the city.

 

This final trial is taking place at the court of cassation which is essentially Egypt's High Court. It's protocol to have the defendant at court. And judges say Mubarak shouldn't be an exception. But the court has now decided to look for a suitable venue to hold the trial. Lawyers expect drama once it finally gets under way.

 

Mubarak is accused of ordering the killings of protesters during the 2011 uprising. He was initially convicted to life in prison.But that decision was later overturned. Prosecutors were granted permission to appeal - hence the current trial. 

 

The trial has now been delayed to November this year. It's the longest postponement so far in the Mubarak trial. The delay wasn't unexpected, though. What we'll be keeping an eye out for now - is whether security forces relent and let Mubarak attend his trial - or will the court compromise on a new venue.