By Yiep Joseph
The special court trial involving suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused including Puot Kang was adjourned on Wednesday due to technical failures.
The 44th session was scheduled to feature testimony from a digital forensic expert. However, the absence of technicians to manage the courtroom displays made it impossible for the expert to present their evidence.
Presiding Judge Dr. James Alala Deng officially adjourned the proceedings after it became clear the necessary screens were not functioning. He noted that the forensic expert’s presentation required a fully operational display system to proceed.
“The court acknowledges that the technicians were not on site to prepare the screens in time for the presentation,”, rescheduling the session for Friday, January 30, 2026. Dr Alala stated
While the public and media were permitted to attend Wednesday’s hearing, access has been inconsistent. Earlier this month, during the 37th session, the court barred the public and press to ensure witness protection following a request from the prosecution.
Dr. Machar, leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), and his co-accused face several serious charges, including, treason and murder, terrorism lastly the Crimes Against Humanity.
These charges stem from an attack on the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) garrison in Nasir County in March 2025. The government alleges that Machar’s allies, including the White Army militia, orchestrated the assault, which resulted in significant military casualties.
The trial, which began in September 2025 under heavy security, continues to draw intense national and international scrutiny. The defense has consistently challenged the evidence, raising constitutional concerns regarding immunity and the jurisdiction of the special court.