By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan
The Special Court in Juba has postponed the high-profile trial of suspended First Vice President Dr Riek Machar and seven co-defendants to Friday, October 3rd, 2025.
During Wednesday’s session, statements from four of the accused were presented by the investigative team. These statements, originally recorded during the arrests, included testimonies from Puot Kang Chuol, Minister of Petroleum, General Gabriel Duop Lam, Mam Pal Dhuor, and Gatwich Lam Puoch.
Presiding Judge James Alala Deng decided to adjourn proceedings to allow the investigative committee more time to present additional testimonies, including that of Dr Machar. The court will reconvene on Friday to continue reviewing the case materials.
The eight defendants face charges related to the deadly Nasir attack that occurred between March 3 and 7, 2025, in Upper Nile State. The assault claimed the lives of over 250 individuals, including Major General David Majur Dak, multiple South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldiers, and two United Nations aviation personnel whose helicopter was reportedly shot down near the conflict zone.
The attack was executed by the White Army, composed mainly of armed Nuer youth. Prosecutors allege the accused played various roles in supporting this operation, although specific charges and individual responsibilities remain undisclosed. Defence lawyers have denied the allegations against their clients.
All eight suspects were arrested in March 2025 and have been in custody since, except for Dr Riek Machar Teny, who is under house confinement.
Legal proceedings commenced on September 11, 2025, initiated by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Dr Joseph Geng Akech, who emphasised the government’s commitment to due process and accountability.
This case has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally, viewed as a critical test of South Sudan’s judicial independence, the rule of law, and the state’s capacity to pursue justice amid ongoing political tensions.
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