War crimes role for SA judge

NEW YORK (Reuter) - Richard Goldstone, the South African judge who conducted high-profile investigations into violence and covert operations in his country, was yesterday named chief prosecutor of the UN tribunal on war crimes in Bosnia and Croatia.

The Security Council adopted a resolution unanimously after months of delay and controversy in finding a suitable candidate for the post. The United States ambassador to the UN, Madeleine Albright, sharply criticised the council for the delay.

The UN Secretary-General, Boutros Boutros-Ghali, nominated Judge Goldstone late on Thursday. He had received approval about a week in advance from key council members.

In Johannesburg, Judge Goldstone said: 'It will be a tremendous honour.' He replaces Ramon Escovar Salom of Venezuela, who resigned to become his country's interior minister.