The Special Court in South Sudan has ordered the immediate removal of court police and security personnel allegedly linked to threats against former First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and his co-accused. This decision was made during the 118th session of the court, following an investigation into an alleged plot to harm members of the defence team. The court's presiding judge, James Alala Deng, issued the order after the investigation into reported security threats was completed.
The defence lawyers had raised concerns about the safety of the accused and their legal team on September 11. They alleged that there were threats and intimidation against Dr. Riek Machar, his co-accused, and their lawyers. In response, the court investigated the matter and introduced additional security measures to ensure the safety of all parties involved. The court also directed security forces to secure roads and clear routes when escorting the accused and their defence lawyers between detention facilities and the court.
The Special Court has ordered security protection for defence lawyers when arriving at and leaving the court. However, the court did not disclose the names of the police officers and security personnel allegedly linked to the threats. The ongoing trial remains on hold pending the investigation and determination of the alleged threats and intimidation. The case has been adjourned until Friday, October 2, 2026, when the court is expected to deliver a ruling on applications submitted by both the prosecution and the defence.
Dr. Riek Machar, the former First Vice President, and his fellow SPLM-IO members were arrested in March 2025 in connection with the Nasir incident. The trial has been ongoing, with the defence team raising concerns over alleged threats and intimidation. The court's decision to remove security personnel linked to the threats aims to ensure a fair trial and protect the rights of the accused and their defence lawyers.
The investigation into the alleged threats and intimidation was conducted after the defence lawyers raised concerns about their safety. The court's decision to introduce additional security measures and remove security personnel linked to the threats demonstrates its commitment to ensuring a safe and fair trial. The case has significant implications for the country's justice system and the rule of law.
The Special Court's order to remove security personnel linked to the threats against Dr. Riek Machar and his co-accused is a significant development in the trial. The court's decision aims to prevent any further threats or intimidation against the accused and their defence lawyers. The case will continue on October 2, 2026, when the court delivers a ruling on applications submitted by both the prosecution and the defence.
The trial of Dr. Riek Machar and his co-accused is closely watched by the international community, with many stakeholders interested in the outcome. The case has significant implications for South Sudan's justice system, stability, and peace. The court's decision to remove security personnel linked to the threats demonstrates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a fair trial.
Key points
- The Special Court has ordered the removal of security personnel linked to alleged threats against Dr. Riek Machar and his co-accused.
- The court's decision aims to ensure a fair trial and protect the rights of the accused and their defence lawyers.
- The case has significant implications for South Sudan's justice system, stability, and peace.
