The century isn't that old, but every century actually has more than one "trial of the century". Usually, observers at least have the decency to wait until the trial starts before applying this particular hyperbole, but I do not feel the need to be so patient. The trial of Khaled Shaikh Mohammed and four others accused of plotting the 9/11 attack has earned this title not because of what the trial will show, or how the attorneys will behave, but because it is happening at all. One of the key debates of this young century, in our country, has been whether we could bring accused terrorists to justice without abandoning our Constitution and our ideals. The Obama administration is showing a real commitment to the rule of law here, for which they are already being criticized by members of the previous administration. This action is commendable. Unfortunately, the Attorney General has also announced that the flawed military commission process would be used against other detainees. It is time for the Guantanamo military commissions to end, and for Guantanamo to be shuttered.
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