Dr. Riek Machar trial adjourned after presiding judge falls ill

2026-03-25 - 08:25

The Special Court proceedings in the trial of suspended First Vice President Dr Riek Machar and seven co-accused were adjourned this morning, Wednesday, after one of the presiding judges fell ill. The court had convened for its 62nd session, during which it was expected to continue the cross-examination of a South African forensic expert. However, the session could not proceed as planned. Judge Simon Stephen, one of the members of the special court, informed the court that Judge Isaac Pur was unwell and unable to attend the hearing. As a result, the court adjourned the session until Monday, March 30, 2026. Dr. Riek Machar is being tried alongside seven co-accused, including senior military and political figures, in connection with the March 2026 violence in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. The accused face charges related to alleged involvement in the outbreak of fighting that led to the loss of life of hundreds of soldiers of SSPDF, including Major Gen. David Majur Dak, and destruction of property. The trial has been ongoing for several months, with the court hearing testimonies from witnesses and expert analysts, including forensic specialist, as it seeks to establish accountability for the Nasir incident.