Seselj: War crimes trial is political

A Serbian leader on trial in Holland for war crimes said the proceedings against him are politically motivated and there is no legal basis for a guilty verdict. Serb Radical Party chief Vojislav Seselj told the Hague Tribunal during closing arguments that he has been subjected to political persecution, Serbia's Tanjug news agency reported. "There is no basis for a guilty verdict," he said. "But you do not need a legal basis." Seselj said because of medical problems, he won't live to serve out the 28-year prison sentence prosecutors are seeking. "You cannot beat me because I am morally and intellectually superior," Seselj said. "All you can do is kill me, and then my grave will continue to fight you." The Hague Tribunal brought charges against Seselj for alleged war crimes in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Vojvodina between 1991 and 1993. Judge Jean-Claude Antonetti declared his trial over Tuesday.