BAGHDAD, Iraq — The court trying Saddam Hussein canceled the resumption of his trial today, delaying the session for five days, after some judges opposed the appointment of a new chief judge in a last-minute shakeup.

The delay and judges’ dispute were the latest sign of disarray in the trial of the ousted Iraqi leader and officials from his former regime, calling into question the fairness of what is meant to be a landmark step in Iraq’s political progress.

The trial has already been marred by delays, assassinations and chaotic courtroom outbursts by Saddam.

The latest postponement came a day after a new chief judge was appointed following the resignation of his predecessor and the ouster of another member of the five-judge panel.