WARNING :No Political Interference in Dr. Machar’s Case

By Yiep Joseph and Lodu William Odiya
The government of South Sudan has reaffirmed that only the special court in Juba has the mandate to determine the case of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused.
Dr. Machar and the seven others face charges including murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity. The case is currently before a special court in the capital.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday, Information Minister and government spokesperson Ateny Wek Ateny said the judiciary must be allowed to proceed without interference from politicians or foreign governments.
“Dr. Riek is under a competent court, and that court is the one trying him. The decision will come from that court. It cannot at this point be publicised or discussed by any politician,” Ateny said.
He warned that attempts by foreign countries or international actors to influence the process would amount to interference in the sovereignty of South Sudan.
“Nobody should interfere in the sovereignty of the Republic of South Sudan. That includes requesting the court to act in ways other states may deem appropriate,” he added.
The minister urged the public and political actors to allow the legal process to run its course, stressing that the outcome rests solely with the court.
At the same time, Ateny reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the 2018 revitalised peace agreement.
Parties to the agreement, including the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) faction in Juba under Stephen Par Kuol, have also reiterated their commitment to continuing the peace process despite the ongoing trial and insecurity in parts of the country.
Both the government and opposition signatories maintain that implementation of the agreement remains on track, with preparations for eventual elections expected to proceed alongside the court process.
Dr. Machar and his co-accused face charges including murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity.
Prosecutors allege that SPLA-IO forces allied with the White Army killed 257 SSPDF soldiers, including commander David Majur Dak, and destroyed or seized military equipment valued at about $58 million during the March 2025 attack on the Nasir garrison.