86. The Court observes that Article 7(1)(c) of the Charter is relevant in this regard. It provides that: "Every individual shall have the right to have his cause heard. This comprises: (a) ... (b) ... (c) the right to defense, including the right to be defended by counsel of his choice;" 87. Article 7 of the Protocol provides that: "The Court shall apply the provision of the Charter and any other relevant human rights instruments ratified by the State concerned." 88. In view of the fact that the Respondent acceded to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) on 11 June 1976 and deposited its instrument of accession on the same date, in accordance with Article 7 of the Protocol, the Court can interpret Article 7(1)(c) of the Charter in light of the provisions of Article 14(3)(d) of the ICCPR. 89. Article 14(3)(d) of the ICCPR is more elaborate than Article 7(1)(c) of the Charter and it reads: "In the determination of any criminal charge against him, everyone shall be entitled to the following minimum guarantees, in full equality: (a) ... (b) ... (c) ... (d) To be tried in his presence, and to defend himself in person or through legal assistance of his own choosing; to be informed, if he does not have legal assistance, of this right; and to have legal assistance assigned to him, in any 36