On 11 September 2025, Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech confirmed that authorities charged Riek Machar with treason, homicide, and crimes in opposition to humanity.
The fees stem from a March 2025 militia assault in Nasir, Higher Nile State, allegedly carried out by Machar’s White Military.
Officers report that the assault killed civilians and troopers.
PRESIDENT KIIR SUSPENDS VICE-PRESIDENT
Following the indictment, President Salva Kiir suspended Machar from workplace via a decree broadcast on state radio.
Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol was additionally charged. In whole, 21 suspects face prosecution, with eight detained and 13 nonetheless at massive.
The case represents a vital take a look at for South Sudan’s fragile post-war governance.
OPPOSITION DISPUTES TREASON CHARGES
The Sudan Individuals’s Liberation Motion-in-Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) slammed the choice, calling the treason prices in opposition to Riek Machar a political manoeuvre.
Occasion leaders declare the allegations goal to undermine the 2018 peace deal and weaken Machar’s management.
Analysts warn the trial might heighten ethnic tensions between Machar’s Nuer supporters and Kiir’s Dinka loyalists.
DEMANDS FOR A FAIR TRIAL
Human Rights Watch has urged authorities to make sure that Machar’s trial meets worldwide requirements of equity.
Observers warn that authorities should present clear proof to stop the trial from showing as political persecution.
Analysts warning that pursuing Riek Machar unfairly, whereas he faces treason prices, might set off renewed instability in South Sudan.
Regional actors proceed urging leaders to steadiness justice with peace.
