Shut him up, please!

The trial of Saddam Hussein was expected to boost the support amongst the Iraqis for the new democracy USA is establishing there. So far it is having the exact opposite effect! The defendant Saddam Hussein appears to be in total control, using the trial, watched by millions of people in Middle East, as a platform to exhort Iraqis to unite against the illegitimate foreign intruders. I just cannot understand how USA can let this happen. Why do they allow the defendant Saddam to address the court frequently, and to interrupt proceedings whenever he wants? In the courts in USA, the defendant gets a chance to speak only once -- in the witness stand, usually towards the end of the trial when the charges against him are well established. Speaking out of turn or interrupting the court proceedings is harshly dealt with. Nothing like that is happening in the Iraqi court. Saddam gives advice, and even gives orders to the judge sometimes. Before things get out of hand, I hope someone stops this melodrama.

I remember the Chicago Eight trial in 1969, when Bobby Seal was gagged and handcuffed for interrupting the court proceedings. That was an extreme step. But come to think of it, not a bad thing to happen this cruel dictator!