The Brazilian Supreme Court has rejected a request by Paraguay for the extradition of the former Paraguayan military commander, General Lino Oviedo.

Paraguay wants General Oviedo in connection with the assassination two years ago of the country's vice-president, Luis Maria Argana.

A Brazilian justice spokesman said the judges believed the extradition request was politically motivated.

General Oviedo's lawyers argued that he would not receive a fair trial in Paraguay, and that his life would be in danger if he returned there.

General Oviedo was captured near the Paraguayan border in Brazil last year after months on the run.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service