Former Liberian President Charles Taylor made his first appearance for his war crimes trial at a hearing at The Hague today. However, the trial’s proceedings were postponed until August 20.

Today’s short hearing was held to explain the court’s reasons for postponing the proceedings and to address scheduling and procedural issues.

The website established to monitor the trial, www.charlestaylortrial.org, reported that “Taylor entered the courtroom in a dark blue suit with a bright yellow tie, nodded to the judges and sat, flanked by two uniformed guards.”

The court said that “after careful reflection,” the prosecution and the principal defender’s office had found justifiable reasons to delay the trial.

The court agreed to extend time limits for all pleadings and motions until issues regarding Taylor’s representation have been resolved.

Taylor is charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes including murder, mutilations, sexual violence, sexual slavery, recruiting and using child soldiers, abduction and using forced labor.