The Special Court in South Sudan has directed enhanced security measures for former First Vice President Riek Machar Teny and seven co-accused after Machar's lead defense lawyer raised concerns about alleged threats to their safety and that of their legal team. This decision was made during the 118th session in Juba, presided over by Judge James Alala Deng. The order aims to ensure the protection of Machar and his co-accused throughout the proceedings.
Machar's lead defense lawyer, Dr. Geri Raymond Legge, raised concerns about imminent threats to the safety of Riek Machar, the co-accused, and their legal team during the 114th session. In response, Judge Deng ordered that all court police personnel whose names have been mentioned in the investigation be barred from attending court sessions with immediate effect. This move is intended to prevent any potential compromise of the accused's safety.
Judge Deng also directed all security forces deployed to the court to secure the premises and ensure the safe escort of the accused and defense teams to their respective destinations. He ordered that roads be cleared during the escort of the accused persons and defense lawyers to facilitate their safe movement. These measures are aimed at safeguarding everyone involved in the proceedings while the investigation into the security concerns is carried out.
The court has set October 2, 2026, to rule on an application filed by the defense seeking clarification on the accused's constitutional right to legal counsel, and the prosecution's counter-application, seeking to question remaining accused persons. This development indicates that the trial will continue with a focus on addressing the legal concerns raised by both sides.
Machar and several co-accused face allegations related to the March 2025 violence in Nasir, Upper Nile State. However, Machar and his co-accused have denied the allegations against them. The trial, which has drawn significant national attention due to the high-profile nature of the accused, is being presided over by Judge James Alala Deng, alongside Justices Stephen Simon and Isaac Pur Majok.
The prosecution team comprises 13 lawyers drawn from the Ministry of Justice and other legal institutions, including Counsel General Deng Achuil Adija, Dr. Sabri Wani Lado, Serafino Simon Mizan, and Filberto Mayuot Mareng. On the defense side, six lawyers are representing the accused, including Dr. Geri Raymond Legge, Kur Lual Kur, and Anis Tombe Augustino. This team of lawyers will continue to represent their clients throughout the trial.
Investigations into the case are being led by Major General Basile Thomas Wani, assisted by Brigadier General John Dak, while Captain Richard Gachi Apollo of the Internal Security Service is listed as the complainant. Those standing trial alongside Machar include Puot Kang Chuol, Mam Pal Dhuor, Gatwech Lam Puoch, Lt Gen Gabriel Duop Lam, Camilo Gatmai Kel, Mading Yak Riek, and Dominic Gatgok Riek. The court will continue to hear the case while ensuring the safety of all parties involved.
Key points
- The Special Court in South Sudan has ordered enhanced security measures for former First Vice President Riek Machar Teny and co-accused due to safety concerns.
- Machar and his co-accused have denied allegations related to the March 2025 violence in Nasir, Upper Nile State.
- The trial is being presided over by Judge James Alala Deng, alongside Justices Stephen Simon and Isaac Pur Majok.
