By Matik Kueth
The Defense Team of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar has stated that it is fully prepared to defend him and seven other accused political detainees in court following their first official meeting since their arrest nearly six months ago.
The case, already one of the most high-profile and politically sensitive trials in South Sudan’s recent history, revolves around allegations that Machar and others plotted the “Nasir incident,” which resulted in the death of late Lt. Gen. Majur Dak, a development that has drawn regional and international attention to the country’s justice system.
Machar, who was put under house arrest on March 26, 2025, alongside several political and military figures, faces charges under Chapters V and VI of the Penal Code Act, 2008, Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech announced last week on Thursday.
The accusations have been dragging on since his arrest, despite his efforts to coordinate the evacuation of Majur.
Since then, human rights advocates and foreign observers have expressed worry over whether the accused were being granted fair trial rights, including access to legal counsel.
For nearly six months, the accused were held without meeting their defense lawyers, sparking fears of due process violations.
In a statement, the team confirmed that on Friday, September 12th, they were allowed to meet Dr. Machar at his house of detention for the first time since his arrest.
The following day, they also visited four of the other accused individuals in Bilpham, SSPDF’s Headquarters.
“We regard this as a positive step toward reinforcing the principle of a fair trial and safeguarding the accused’s right to communicate with his legal counsel,” the statement read in part.
The lawyers revealed that three other accused individuals remain without legal consultation, but expressed optimism that such meetings would soon be granted.
Defense strategy and observations
During the visits, the Defense Team opted to defer taking formal statements from the accused, saying the process must be conducted within a proper legal framework free from “undue pressure or external influence” and that legal applications to this effect will be filed before the competent court.
They also assured the public that all accused detainees are in good health and high spirits, and commended the Office of the Public Prosecutor and relevant authorities for their cooperation and protection of the detainees.
“The Defense Team has completed its legal preparations and stands fully ready to defend the accused in accordance with national, regional, and international legal standards,” it emphasized.
What lies ahead
South Sudan’s court faces a tough challenge as the trial approaches, one that could impact its reputation and its ability to balance political stability and justice.
“This case, by its very nature and given its political and legal complexities, requires that justice be the guiding compass and truth the ultimate goal,” said the Defense Team, underlining confidence in the judiciary’s ability to deliver a fair outcome.