Examination of Expert Witness David Chandler Continues with Questions by Ieng Sary’s and Khieu Samphan’s Defense Teams

The proceedings continued Tuesday, July 24 with further cross-examination of expert witness David Chandler in Case 002 against accused Nuon Chea, Khieu Samphan, and Ieng Sary at the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC).

In the morning proceedings, 300 villagers from Kampong Cham province filled the public gallery. In the courtroom, all parties were present, with Ieng Sary present in his holding cell. Ieng Sary’s request to follow the proceedings from his holding cell because of his poor health was granted. It was also reported that the reserve witness would be arriving at the Court in the morning.

Before turning to Ieng Sary’s defense team to resume its cross-examination, Trial Chamber President Nil Nonn gave to floor to Judge Cartwright to address the Ieng Sary defense team’s request yesterday to use a chart prepared by them while questioning Professor Chandler. Judge Cartwright noted that the Chamber had received a copy of the chart. Observing that the court operates based on case file and “no surprises,” she explained how trial material should be known by all parties well in advance of the expert or witness’s testimony. As the parties have been aware of Professor Chandler’s testimony for a while, she said, this request regarding documents came “far too late.” Regarding the chart itself, Judge Cartwright said, “It has no formal status before the court,” remarking that it lacked relevance since Professor Chandler has testified he is not an expert in demographics. She further reminded counsel that material previously denied by the Chamber cannot be relied upon during examination of the witness…

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