Seselj informed the Tribunal that his decision was made in view of the Appeals Chamber's decision issued today, as well as commitments from the Registry to facilitate many of his requests concerning arrangements for his defence. The Appeals Chamber's decision granted Seselj's appeal against the Trial Chamber's decision to impose stand by counsel.
The Appeals Chamber reversed the Impugned Decision assigning counsel to Seselj and directed the Trial Chamber not to impose standby counsel unless Seselj exhibits obstructionist behaviour fully satisfying the Trial Chamber that, in order to ensure a fair and expeditious trial, Seselj requires the assistance of standby counsel.
Due to the current health condition of Seselj, the Appeals Chamber ordered that his trial should not open until such time as he is fully able to participate in the proceeding as a self-represented accused.