By William Madouk
The decision on whether Dr. Riek Machar will retain his position as South Sudan’s First Vice President now lies with the investigation committee, government spokesperson Michael Makuei said on Friday.
Speaking to journalists in Juba, Makuei, who also serves as Minister of Information, stated that the committee’s findings will determine whether Machar is prosecuted, which could lead to his removal from office.
“As for his position, it will be vacated when necessity requires,” said Makuei. “If the investigation committee finds a prima facie case against Riek Machar, they will recommend his prosecution. Once that happens, he cannot stand trial while holding the office of First Vice President—he will have to be relieved of his duties.”
Makuei added that the investigative committee holds the authority to clear Machar if no substantial evidence is found. “If they find that there is no case against Riek Machar, the investigation committee has the competence to discharge him,” he noted.
In the event of Machar’s dismissal, Makuei said the interim leadership of the SPLM/A-IO will be asked to nominate a replacement.
“The president will call the Interim Administration of the IO and request a recommendation to fill the vacancy. It is they who will suggest a replacement,” he said.
Responding to concerns about the SPLM/A-IO’s stability without Machar, Makuei emphasized that the movement is not dependent on one individual.
“The fact that he is the chair of the organization doesn’t mean that, in his absence, the movement or institution has collapsed. It continues. His arrest or absence doesn’t mean the SPLM/A-IO is no more,” he concluded.