Liberia’s ex-President sentenced to 50 years in jail

Liberia’s ex-President Charles Taylor has been sentenced to 50 years in jail by a UN-backed war crimes court.

Last month Taylor was found guilty of aiding and abetting rebels in Sierra Leone during the 1991-2002 civil war.

The prosecution at the Special Court for Sierra Leone wanted an 80-year prison term, which the defence said was excessive.

Taylor, 64, insists he is innocent and is likely to appeal the sentence, correspondents say.

The appeal process could last up to six months.