Machar Case: Govt tells church to respect judicial independence

2026-03-18 - 08:24

The Government has told South Sudan Council of Churches that judicial processes into Dr. Riek Machar’s case must remain independent and warned that releasing individuals involved in ongoing legal proceedings before their cases conclude undermines justice. In its statement, the government stressed, “Criminal accountability is a judicial process that must proceed independently and without interference, regardless of an individual’s political status or position,” the statement partially reads. “Releasing Dr. Riek Machar before the court proceedings conclude sets precedents where judicial process and rule of law are often undermined and therefore weaken the very principle of justice.” The government also emphasized that security, judicial, and political matters “are inherently state functions” and cautioned that “while we value the moral voice of faith-based institutions, it is essential that this role remains constructive and does not inadvertently blur into partisan political positioning.” Addressing claims about the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army in Opposition (SPLM/A IO), the government said, “Equating the SPLM/A IO viability to Dr. Riek Machar’s leadership presupposes that the SPLM/A IO is not a movement with structures and cadres, but an individualized entity that cannot function without its leaders — preposition that is farther from the truth.” The statement also condemned violence against civilians, noting, “Anyone found responsible for such crimes will be held accountable in accordance with the law.” It urged all armed actors to cease hostilities and prioritize dialogue, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the Revitalized Peace Agreement as the framework for lasting peace and stability.