BAGHDAD, Dec 30 (Reuters) - Final preparations were under way for Saddam Hussein's execution shortly before dawn on Saturday, Arabic television stations said, reporting a cleric had arrived to hear any final words and witnesses were in place.

U.S.-backed Al Hurra said a Muslim cleric was present at the place of execution, but it did not say where that was.

Two witnesses due to attend the execution told Reuters earlier they had been summoned for 5.30 am (0230 GMT).

Arabiya television reported they were present at that hour.

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