January 02, 2009	Friday	Muharram 04, 1430

MOSCOW: Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has signed a bill ending jury trials on charges of terrorism and treason, a move critics say marks a retreat from democratic reform.

The law strips defendants of the right to a jury trial in cases involving treason, terror, armed revolt, sabotage and riots. Instead, defendants must face three judges.

The law’s supporters say juries have acquitted many suspects despite strong incriminating evidence. Critics say the law marks the erosion of a key post-Soviet reform. The Kremlin announced late on Wednesday that Medvedev signed it.

Parliament has proposed expanding the legal definition of treason, a measure rights groups say reflects the Kremlin’s growing fear the faltering economy will lead to civil unrest.—AP