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Former Senegalese Prime Minister to be Tried in Special Court
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(http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=E76CA5:3919ACA

Parliament votes 69-35 Wednesday to try Idrissa Seck in High Court of
Justice on charges of threatening state security and embezzlement
Senegal's parliament has approved a measure to try former Prime
Minister Idrissa Seck in a special court.

The parliament voted 69 to 35 Wednesday to try Mr. Seck in the High
Court of Justice on charges of threatening state security and
embezzlement.

Mr. Seck cannot be tried in a regular court because of the office he
held at the time of the alleged offenses.

Prosecutors accuse Mr. Seck of overspending millions of dollars for
renovation projects as mayor of his hometown, Thies.  While
investigating that charge, they say they also uncovered evidence that
he endangered national security.

Mr. Seck has denied any wrongdoing.  His arrest last month sparked
clashes between police and his supporters.

Local media reports have portrayed him as a possible rival to
President Abdoulaye Wade in presidential polls set for 2007.

Some information for this report provided by Reuters.


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