Mubarak, 83, is being tried along with his two sons, ex-interior Minister Habib al-Adly, and six other former officials. Mubarak and his sons have denied all charges against them.
Mubarak and each of his sons face up to 15 years in prison on the corruption charges and if convicted of the murder charge could spend the rest of their lives behind bars. Habib al-Adly and six former officials also face murder charges and life in prison.
According to Amnesty International more than 840 people were killed and 6000 injured during the 18 days of revolt.
Mubarak’s defense lawyers say that he is extremely ill and suffers from heart palpitations. However, the judge trying his case, Ahmed Refaat, required Mubarak’s presence and he was wheeled into the courtroom on a hospital bed at the Cairo police academy.
Mubarak is being moved to the International Medical Centre just outside of Cairo to be able to more efficiently reach the courthouse.
According to Al-Ahram, a local newspaper, Judge Refaat is known as a fair judge who is independent from the influence of the former regime.
The BBC reports that more than 3,000 soldiers have been assigned to maintain order at the police academy during the proceedings. They also estimate that 600 people are watching the historic trial from both in and outside the courtroom, while millions watch it broadcast on state television.
Small fights occurred between opponents and supporters of Mubarak who were observing the proceedings early on Wednesday. The fights were contained by riot police
Judge Refaat, who reportedly promised a fair and speedy trial, decided the court will reconvene in August 15th to continue hearings.
