EGYPT’S MORSI ARRIVES AT MILITARY COURT

        Cairo, 30 Dhul hijja 1434/4 November 2013 (MINA) – Egypt’s official news agency  reports ousted President Mohammed Morsi has arrived by helicopter at a Cairo military court where his trial for incitement of violence and murder will  begin.

        The opening of the trial on Monday in Cairo is Morsi’s first public appearance since Egypt’s military overthrew the first freely elected president on July 3, 2013, media reported.

        Morsi is acussed of incitement of murder and violence at the Ittihadiya presidential palace clashes in December 2012.

        Egyptian authorities on Sunday moved the trial of the president to a new location at another end of the capital, claiming, a move apparently aimed at thwarting mass rallies planned by the Muslim Brotherhood in his support when it opens on Monday.

        A helicopter flew him from a secret detention location to the court at the Police Academy on the eastern outskirts of Cairo, Ahram reported as quoted by Mi’raj News Agency (MINA).

          The co-defendants were transferred to court via armoured vehicles from south Cairo’s Tora prison. 

          Ayman Nihad, lawyer for 14 of the defendants, told Ahram Online he would request incorporating reports into the case that accuse then interior minister Ahmed Gamaleddin of “responsiblity for the killings.” 

          The attorney said he would also request access to all documents in the case after the court had denied lawyers permission to examine evidence prior to Monday’s opening session.

          Lawyers and journalists who have the appropriate permits have begun entering the court. Security arrangements by both police and military surrounding the court have been intensified. 

          The pro-Morsi National Alliance to Support Legitimacy on Sunday reiterated its call for supporters to rally at the court on Monday which now they’ve seen in some areas around Cairo for the peaceful protest. (T/P03/E1)

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)