Having confirmed his comprehension of the plea agreement's terms and consequences, as outlined in Rule 94 of the Rules, Ismet Bahtijari was asked to enter his pleas regarding counts 2 and 3 of the indictment. He pleaded guilty to both counts today. The session then continued by addressing additional items outlined in the agenda and is now concluded.
The Trial Panel announced today that it will be able to make decisions regarding all plea agreements, including sentencing, only after receiving the report from the Victims’ Participation Office, which is expected by 20 January 2025 (we informed about yesterday), along with the parties' observations on the report, due by 27 January. The Panel clarified that any potential reparations must be addressed as part of the plea agreements, in accordance with Rule 94 (2)(c) of the Rules. Further instructions will be provided by the Panel after the winter recess.
