Sarwari is said to have been detained since 1992, when Mujahideen factions overthrew the Soviet-backed communist regime in Kabul.
He is charged with torture, illegal mass arrests and executions.
His trial started on 26 December 2005 before the National Security Court.
On the first day of his trial, Sarwari rejected the charges, stating that he considered them a political conspiracy. Sarwari was given 20 days to prepare an affidavit.
On 31 January 2006, the trial was adjourned again, in order to give Sarwari time to find a defense counsel.
The trial resumed on 23 February 2006, with Sarwari conducting his own defense. The same day, after having heard more than 20 witnesses and seeing video footage of documents allegedly signed by Sarwari, the Court found Sarwari guilty of killing hundreds of people in the communist prisons under his control. He was sentenced to death.
