Former Guatemalan Military Ruler's Genocide Trial Begins

Efrain Rios Montt denies the charges

The trial of the former military ruler of Guatemala, Efrain Rios Montt, for genocide and crimes against humanity has begun in Guatemala City.

During Mr Rios Montt's 17-month rule in the 1980s, more than 1,700 indigenous people are thought to have been killed.

The UN says it is the first time a former head of state has faced a national court for such crimes—rights activists say the trial is "historic".