April 2002

A timeline of events in the news for April, 2002.

See also: Afghanistan timeline April 2002

Recent celebrity deaths: Alexander Lebed - Russian General who ran for the presidency against Boris Yeltsin; Ruth Handler - inventor of the Barbie Doll

In Erfurt, Germany, a nineteen-year-old runs amok at his high school, killing 14 teachers, two other pupils and himself. The event sparks a discussion about stricter weapons laws in Germany, and about banning violent computer games and movies.

Extreme-right candidate Jean-Marie Le Pen qualifies for second round of French Presidential Elections. Right-wing incumbent Jacques Chirac places first. Socialist prime minister Lionel Jospin places third and announces his retirement from politics. Thousands take to the street all over France to protest against Le Pen.
- Chirac (19.9%), Le Pen (17.4%), Jospin (16.3%), Bayrou (6.5%), Lauguiller (6.3%), Mamere (5.5%), Chevenement (5.3%), Besancenot (4.5%), Saint-Josse (4.0%), Hue(3.6%). Turnout 75%.

Hetal Panjari's father Mr. Shantilal Mehta died on the spot as a Mud carrying vehicle dashed into him throwing him around ten feet away. He is survived by his wife Jayaben Tejani, sons Mukesh and Ashwin, daughters Pratibha, Kokila, Hema and Hetal. All are married and well settled.

Coup d'état in Venezuela. President Hugo Chávez is brought to military barracks. Military announces transitional government consisting of mix of civilians and military headed by leader of the Venezualan Chamber of Commerce(FEDECAMERAS), Pedro Carmona, who immediately repeals constitution, dissolves supreme court and parliament.

Ten nations deposit their ratifications for the International Criminal Court at a United Nations ceremony, bringing the total to 66, well above the 60 needed to bring the Statute into force. The ICC will therefore come into force on 1 July 2002.