By Chol D. Johnson
Presiding Justice of the Supreme Court Dr. James Alala Deng has called on journalists covering the trial of Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused to uphold accuracy, fairness, and balance in their reporting.
Speaking during the fourth session on the ruling of the objections presented by the defense team at Freedom Hall on Monday, Dr. Alala emphasized that media coverage must reflect the integrity of the judicial process and avoid sensationalism.
“All media houses are allowed to access the court and report,” he said, referencing the court’s decision last week to open proceedings to the public.
He cautioned reporters against editorializing courtroom events, stating, “Journalists should not add options when reporting court hearings, they should be accurate, fair, and balanced,” Dr. Alala stressed.
The remarks came shortly after Dr. Alala disqualified two defense lawyers, Deng John Deng and Warnyang Kiir Warnyang, from participating in the trial due to expired Bar Association licenses. The Special Court ruled that the advocates may only resume participation once their credentials are renewed and sanctioned by the President of the Supreme Court.
Despite the court’s stated openness, media access remains restricted. Only the state-run broadcaster has been granted full coverage rights, while independent outlets have been barred, citing courtroom security and procedural integrity. The presiding judge defended the decision, stating, “This court is not a political podium nor a theatre for public spectacle. It is a constitutional institution governed by law.”
The case, which involves allegations of war crimes, treason, and crimes against humanity, is widely seen as a test of South Sudan’s commitment to rule of law and judicial independence.