It's possible he should have been executed for his crimes against humanity - but he was found guilty 'only' of having 148 people killed in response to a failed attempt on his life (Dujail). Thet should have had everything he was accused of out in court. The cynic in me suspects that the west don't want to go near some of if because of our involvement - indirect or otherwise.

In my view, he should have been sentenced to death and then had that commuted to life in prison - shows the strength/mercy of the new regime. The families of Saddam's victims probably won't get much out of his death.