The adjournment was announced on Friday by Judge Stephen Simon Binjigwa, who stated that the 69th session of the special court would not proceed as planned due to the health condition of fellow panel member Justice Issac Pur Majok.
According to Binjigwa, the court had been set to continue with the cross-examination of an expert witness, but the illness of Justice Pur made it necessary to suspend proceedings temporarily.
This marks the second time the trial has been interrupted due to illness involving the same judge. On March 25, 2026, proceedings were similarly halted when Justice Pur fell sick, forcing an earlier adjournment to March 30. The repeated delays have raised concerns about the pace and continuity of the high-profile case.
Dr. Riek Machar, 73, who remains under house arrest, is facing multiple charges including murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, and crimes against humanity. The case also involves seven other accused individuals and has attracted significant national and international attention due to Machar’s long-standing political role in South Sudan.
The trial continues to draw scrutiny from regional and international observers, many of whom have called for transparency, fairness, and adherence to due legal process. The case is widely seen as a major test for South Sudan’s judicial system amid ongoing political tensions.
Earlier this week, Justice Minister Michael Makuei Lueth stated that the trial was nearing conclusion, even as pressure mounts from international actors calling for political dialogue and the release of detainees.
The prosecution is led by senior legal teams supported by investigators from military and internal security services, while the defense is represented by a group of six lawyers.
0 Comments