Former First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar has raised an urgent but unspecified security concern before the Special Court trying him and seven co-defendants. During the court's 128th session on Wednesday, Machar requested the judges to consider a complaint from the defense team. Although he did not disclose the details of the complaint, he emphasized its urgency. The court has been tasked with trying Machar and his co-defendants for charges arising from the Nasir clashes.
Addressing the court, Machar stated that the defense team needed to present an urgent matter that required the judges' attention. Judge Stephen Simon Binjigwa, a member of the three-panel jury, responded that the court is competent to consider urgent matters. He advised Machar to have his legal representatives present the complaint. The court will consider the complaint, ensuring that Machar's rights are protected during the trial.
The Special Court proceedings were adjourned until November 18, 2026, to accommodate the state funeral of veteran politician and military commander Joseph Lagu Yanga. Lagu passed away on October 27, 2026, and his funeral is expected to be attended by President Salva Kiir and other senior government officials. The adjournment allows the court to pay respects to the late politician while also giving the defense team time to prepare their urgent complaint.
Machar and his seven co-defendants face charges arising from the Nasir clashes, including treason, murder, conspiracy, terrorism, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity. They deny all charges. The prosecution alleges that forces aligned with the SPLM/A-IO and the White Army attacked a government garrison in Nasir, resulting in significant losses.
According to the prosecution, the attack on the government garrison in Nasir resulted in the deaths of 257 soldiers, including Gen. David Majur Dak. The destruction or seizure of military equipment valued at approximately US$58 million was also reported. The gravity of these allegations underscores the importance of a fair trial, ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families.
The trial of Machar and his co-defendants is a significant development in South Sudan's efforts to address accountability for past conflicts. The Special Court has been established to try high-profile cases, and the Machar case is one of the most high-profile trials to date. The court's proceedings will continue on November 18, with the defense team's urgent complaint to be considered.
The outcome of the trial will have far-reaching implications for South Sudan's justice system and its efforts to promote accountability and reconciliation. As the trial continues, it is essential that the court ensures a fair and impartial process, allowing all parties to present their cases. The international community will be watching closely, as the trial's outcome may impact the country's stability and progress towards peace and justice.
Key points
- The Special Court trying Machar and his co-defendants has adjourned proceedings until November 18, 2026.
- Machar and his co-defendants face charges arising from the Nasir clashes, including treason and crimes against humanity.
- The prosecution alleges that forces aligned with Machar's group were responsible for the deaths of 257 soldiers and the destruction of military equipment valued at US$58 million.
