BANGUI — The UN-backed Special Criminal Court in the Central African Republic commenced the trial of former president François Bozizé in absentia last week. Bozizé faces charges of multiple crimes against humanity allegedly committed between 2009 and 2013 during his presidency.

Bozizé is currently in exile in Guinea-Bissau. His defense team stated on Tuesday that procedural irregularities had occurred in the trial and that the conditions to try him in absentia had not been met. They contended that informing the ministers of justice and foreign affairs of the proceedings is required by law, but had not happened. The defense team requested a delay in the trial until this formality of informing the ministers was fulfilled.

Judges in the case stated that Bozizé is the subject of a public arrest warrant. They also stated that Bozizé chose not to appear in court despite being informed of the charges against him. The judges indicated that the existence of the arrest warrant and Bozizé's failure to appear were sufficient grounds to begin proceedings.

Bozizé is on trial with three of his former senior military officers. The charges against Bozizé and his co-defendants include murder, enforced disappearance, and torture. The alleged offenses occurred in Bangui, Bossembélé, and Bouar.

The Special Criminal Court was established to prosecute serious human rights violations in the Central African Republic. International observers have noted the significance of trying a former head of state in the country where the alleged crimes took place. The court operates with a mix of national and international judges and prosecutors. Proceedings are expected to continue over the coming months as evidence is presented. Bozizé has denied the allegations through his legal representatives. His supporters claim the trial is politically motivated, while victims' groups have expressed hope for justice. The outcome of the trial could set a precedent for future accountability efforts in the region.