So close ....

Next time, protesters, keep the pressure on the qt. He's dumb enough and his handlers arrogant enough that the next invitation could tempt him out.

Susie Madrak at Crooks and Liars:

Oh, what a shame. Why won't people leave that nice man alone with his memories?

Former U.S. President George W. Bush has cancelled a visit to Switzerland over fears he could have been arrested on torture charges.

Mr Bush was due to be the keynote speaker at a Jewish charity gala in Geneva on February 12.

But pressure has been building on the Swiss government to arrest him and open a criminal investigation if he enters the country.

Criminal complaints against Mr Bush alleging torture have been lodged in Geneva, court officials said.

Human rights groups said they had intended to submit a 2,500-page case against him in the Swiss city tomorrow for alleged mistreatment of suspected militants at Guantanamo Bay.

Left-wing groups have also called for a protest on the day of his visit, leading organisers at Keren Hayesod's annual dinner to cancel Mr Bush's participation on security grounds.

The New York-based Human Rights Watch and International Federation of Human Rights (FIDH) said the cancellation was linked to growing moves told him accountable for the use of torture, including waterboarding.

Genuine democracies prosecute all those who commit crimes, even wealthy and powerful former officials. Allowing war criminals to retire in luxury is a hallmark of banana republics.