Liberian ex-president Charles Taylor has pleaded not guilty to charges of crimes against humanity over years of atrocities in Sierra Leone.
Judge Richard Lussick read out the 11-count indictment against him at the UN-backed Special Court for Sierra Leone today.
Mr Taylor, who appeared wearing a dark suit and brown tie, also
questioned the court's jurisdiction, the way he was arrested and the nature of the charges.
It was the first court appearance of the ex-warlord, making him
the first former president on African soil to answer charges of
crimes against humanity.
Mr Taylor is facing charges of crimes against humanity in connection with his alleged support for rebels in Sierra Leone during Liberia's civil war.
The 58-year-old was arrested last week.
The trial proper is not expected to begin for some months as the court has said it wants the hearing moved to The Hague amid security concerns.
