30 Jul 2009

Trousers accused makes first appearance

11:53 am on 30 July 2009

A Sudanese woman facing 40 lashes for wearing trousers in public has made her first appearance in a court packed with supporters.

Lubna Hussein's lawyer is describing her case as a test of Sudan's decency laws.

Ms Hussein, a former journalist who works for the United Nations, attended the hearing wearing the same green slacks that got her arrested for immodest dress.

The case has been adjourned while lawyers discuss whether her status as a UN employee gives her legal immunity.

Her lawyer says she has agreed to resign from the UN in time for the next court session to make sure the case continues.