By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan
The legal team representing First Vice President Riek Machar, along with several officials facing charges of treason and murder, has announced its preparedness to mount a robust defence for their clients.
In a statement issued by Kur & Co. Advocates on Sunday, September 14, the defence team confirmed that they met with Dr. Machar at his place of detention on September 12. The following day, they visited four other accused individuals to discuss their defence strategies. The lawyers characterised these meetings as vital for upholding the accused’s right to legal representation and ensuring a fair trial.
“The Defence Team has completed its legal preparations and is fully equipped to advocate for the accused, aligning with the rights guaranteed under national laws as well as regional and international conventions through lawful and objective arguments,” the statement noted.
The defence team indicated that they will be filing the necessary legal applications with the appropriate court to ensure that statements from the accused are made in a legitimate legal context, free from external pressures. This will allow them to exercise their legal and human rights freely and without fear.
On Thursday, September 11, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs announced that First Vice President Riek Machar and seven others are facing six charges. These charges stem from alleged coordination of attacks on the Nasir barrack between March 3 and 7, 2025, resulting in the deaths of Major General David Majur Dak, over 250 soldiers from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), and a UN pilot.
The charges include murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity.
The defence team is actively working to ensure that all defendants have prompt access to legal counsel. “We have not yet had the chance to confer with three of the accused, and we hope this can happen soon to guarantee effective legal communication with all defendants,” stated Kur Lual Kur, representing the defence team.
During their visits, the lawyers reported that all detainees are in good health and maintaining a positive morale within their respective detention facilities. They also expressed appreciation to the Office of the Public Prosecutor and relevant state authorities for facilitating the visits and ensuring the safety of those accused.
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