Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The trial of Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and several senior opposition officials has commenced in Juba, with the defense immediately challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case.
The Special Court, composed of three judges—led by Judge James Alala and including Judge Stephen Simon and Judge Isaac Four—opened proceedings by recording observations from the defense team.
Lawyers for the accused cited provisions within the Revitalized Peace Agreement, arguing that certain clauses prevent the court from having the authority to prosecute the defendants on these matters.
Dr. Machar, who also leads the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), was suspended from his duties last week after the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs filed formal charges against him. Also detained are Minister of Petroleum Puot Kang Chol and several other opposition leaders.
The defendants face multiple charges, including murder, high treason, conspiracy, financing terrorist activities, acting against state authorities, and committing crimes against humanity.
These charges stem from violent clashes in March in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, which resulted in the deaths of a general from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and hundreds of soldiers.
The prosecution team consists of 13 prosecutors, two investigators, and two brigadier generals. The Internal Security Service is represented by a legal captain acting on behalf of the complainant.
The defense team for the accused includes six lawyers.
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