12/08/2026
Lawyers representing suspended South Sudanese First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused have asked the court to allow the defence to operate its own audio and video recording equipment during the ongoing trial.
During Wednesday’s 107th session at Freedom Hall in Juba, lead defence lawyer Dr. Geri Raimondo Legge said having an independent camera would ensure the defence had its own record of the proceedings and promote equal treatment of the parties.
The defence said it had observed two cameras believed to be operated by the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) and another camera it believed belonged to the prosecution.
Lead prosecutor Ajo Ony’Ohisa, however, denied that the prosecution had a camera in the courtroom and left the matter for the court to decide.
The court adjourned the case until Monday, August 17, when it is expected to rule on the defence application.
Machar, who is the fifth accused, and seven other defendants are facing charges linked to the March 2025 violence in Nasir, Upper Nile State.
The charges include treason, murder, conspiracy, terrorism, destruction of public property and crimes against humanity.