By Matik Kueth
The special court on Monday accused suspended Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chuol of financing the purchase of firearms and ammunition allegedly used by the White Army militia to attack a South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) garrison in Nasir, Upper Nile State, killing hundreds of soldiers.
The revelation came during the 19th session of the ongoing treason trial against eight high-profile figures, including suspended First Vice President Riek Machar, accused of crimes against humanity, terrorism, and destruction of property.
Chief investigator Maj. Gen. Basilio Thomas Wani told the special court that Minister Puot Kang Chuol financed the procurement of firearms and ammunition used by the White Army militia in an assault on the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) garrison in Nasir on March 3.
He said another man, Chuol Gatnor, photographed the purchased weapons and sent the pictures to the minister via WhatsApp to confirm the transaction.
According to the investigator, the Nasir garrison was attacked in two waves, first led by Col. Tor Gile Thoan on March 3, and then by Kang Makana the following day, which ultimately overran the base.
The offensive, Wani said, was coordinated by officers of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) alongside the White Army militia.
The violence left Maj. Gen. David Majur Dak and more than 275 SSPDF soldiers dead.
Why the trial is in Juba, not Nasir
Prosecution lawyer Advocate Ajo Onyo Issa questioned why the case was being tried in Juba rather than in Nasir or Malakal, where the attack occurred.
Wani explained that the decision was based on national security considerations and logistical needs.
As the case intensifies, the prosecution filed an application seeking witness protection measures and the appointment of a court interpreter.
The proposal aims to shield witnesses from potential threats or intimidation, recommending measures such as concealed identities, security escorts, and testimonies from closed rooms to prevent public exposure.
Defense lawyer Dr. Geri Raimondo Legge acknowledged receipt of the application and said the defense would file a written response before the next hearing.
Judiciary faces pressure to deliver justice
The trial, presided over by Judge Dr. James Alala Deng, has been described as one of the most politically sensitive in years, testing the independence of South Sudan’s judicial system as it involves figures from both government and opposition ranks.
Dr. Alala adjourned the session to Wednesday, saying the court would take time to formulate its own questions for the investigator before hearing the complainant, the National Security Service, in the next session.
Beyond the courtroom drama, the trial has become a litmus test for South Sudan’s commitment to justice and accountability.
With allegations tying senior leaders to acts of violence and the use of militias, the proceedings are raising fundamental questions about the reach of political immunity and the state’s ability to prosecute its own.