By Matik Kueth
The South African Forensic expert’s testimony on Monday introduced fresh complexity into the high-profile trial of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, as the court heard that no direct military orders linking him to the March 2025 Nasir attack were found on his personal devices, despite claims he failed to control his forces.
Appearing before the court during the 67th session at Freedom Hall in Juba, digital expert investigator Ratlhogo Peter Calvin Rafadi said his findings pointed to a breakdown in leadership within the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO).
However, he conceded under cross-examination that he was unable to access key data from Machar’s phone and laptop due to encryption barriers.
Defense lawyer Anis Tombe Augustino challenged the credibility of Rafadi’s conclusions, emphasizing that the report contained no concrete proof, such as written or recorded orders, directly tying Machar to the deadly assault that left dozens dead, including senior military officials and UN personnel.
Rafadi acknowledged the gap, confirming that no explicit instructions to launch an attack were recovered.
Moreover, he pointed to indirect indicators, including phone call records and WhatsApp exchanges obtained from co-accused Puot Kang Chol, which he said suggested a culture of secrecy among those allegedly involved.
One such message, reportedly sent by an individual identified as Gok Lual, requested communication with “the chairman,” a term often associated with Machar.
The response, advising against a standard phone call, was interpreted by the expert as evidence of cautious, covert coordination.
Yet, Rafadi admitted the actual content of the calls remains unknown.
Presiding Judge James Alala Deng adjourned proceedings until April 15, as cross-examination is set to continue.
Machar and his co-accused currently under house arrest, faces a sweeping list of charges, including murder, terrorism, treason, and crimes against humanity.