A South Sudan special court rejected challenges from suspended Vice President Riek Machar's defense team. The tribunal affirmed its authority to prosecute him on murder, treason, and crimes against humanity charges. Judges dismissed arguments about jurisdiction, immunity, and procedural objections. Proceedings will resume on Wednesday.
Machar remains under house arrest after his alleged militia attacked government forces in March, and the assault killed 250 soldiers and one general. His attorneys argued a hybrid African Union court should handle the case, but Judge James Alala ruled no such tribunal exists. The court removed two defense lawyers who lacked valid licenses. Regional powers have urged restraint amid fears the prosecution could reignite civil war.
Machar remains under house arrest after his alleged militia attacked government forces in March, and the assault killed 250 soldiers and one general. His attorneys argued a hybrid African Union court should handle the case, but Judge James Alala ruled no such tribunal exists. The court removed two defense lawyers who lacked valid licenses. Regional powers have urged restraint amid fears the prosecution could reignite civil war.
