IRAQ: Iraqi prosecutors expect to indict Saddam Hussein on 12 counts of crimes against humanity related to a series of military actions he ordered during nearly 24 years of his rule.
Mr Salem Chalabi, an Iraqi lawyer who is overseeing the trial, told CNN television that arrest warrants would also be handed to 11 of Saddam's closest aides.
These would include the former deputy prime minister, Mr Tariq Aziz, and Mr Ali Hassan al-Majeed, known as Chemical Ali for his role in using chemical weapons.
Saddam, who is due to come under Iraqi justice today, two days after the country regained its sovereignty from the United States, was expected to go on trial next year, while the trial of other suspects could begin this autumn, Mr Chalabi said.
He also said Iraq last week launched a witness protection programme to encourage Iraqis to come forward to testify against the suspects, including Saddam.