Yakani calls for judicial independence, security in Machar’s Nasir trial

Activist and Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, has called on the South Sudan government to protect the independence of the judiciary and ensure the safety of all parties involved in the trial of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and his co-accused.

The case concerns charges against Riek Machar and seven co-accused over the March 2025 attack on an SSPDF barracks in Nasir, Upper Nile State. The government charged Machar with murder, treason and crimes against humanity in connection with the incident. 

Edmond Yakani, made the call following the adjournment of the 115th session of the special court to September 23, 2026, citing security concerns.

He said any threats against judges, prosecutors or defence lawyers amount to an attack on the judiciary and the rule of law.

“Independence of the judiciary is a key pillar in building a state and the nation of South Sudan.”

Yakani condemned alleged threats and hostile sentiments directed at members of the defence and prosecution teams, as well as the judges handling the case.

“Any attack on defence team associated with the same case, any attack on prosecution team associated with the same case, any attack on the judges associated with the same case is all an attack against the judiciary system.”

He urged state authorities to take responsibility for the protection of everyone involved in the proceedings.

“The safety of the defence team and the safety of the prosecution team and the safety of the judges should be a primary responsibility of the state.”

Yakani also warned against political interference or threats intended to influence the judicial process.

“When we are under the mood of application of the law, once we are testing the law, there should be no any interference in terms of political interference with the process of applying the law or testing the law.”

The court adjourned proceedings after concerns were raised over security arrangements. Presiding Judge James Alala said the session started late because of security preparations, while Judge Stephen Simon later announced the adjournment to allow a review of security procedures.

The trial has been conducted under heightened security, with roads leading to Freedom Hall routinely closed and armed personnel and armoured vehicles deployed around the venue.

Four of the eight accused have so far presented their defence testimony, while the fifth accused and three others are yet to present their defences.

Yakani called on all state institutions to uphold judicial independence without fear or favour.

“We appeal to all the state organs that have authority to undermine that they stand up firm without any fear or favour to respect the independence of the judiciary of the Republic of South Sudan.