On 11 September 2025, Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech confirmed that authorities charged Riek Machar with treason, murder, and crimes against humanity.
The charges stem from a March 2025 militia attack in Nasir, Upper Nile State, allegedly carried out by Machar’s White Army.
Officials report that the assault killed civilians and soldiers.
PRESIDENT KIIR SUSPENDS VICE-PRESIDENT
Following the indictment, President Salva Kiir suspended Machar from office through a decree broadcast on state radio.
Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol was also charged. In total, 21 suspects face prosecution, with eight detained and 13 still at large.
The case represents a critical test for South Sudan’s fragile post-war governance.
OPPOSITION DISPUTES TREASON CHARGES
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) slammed the decision, calling the treason charges against Riek Machar a political manoeuvre.
Party leaders claim the allegations aim to undermine the 2018 peace deal and weaken Machar’s leadership.
Analysts warn the trial could heighten ethnic tensions between Machar’s Nuer supporters and Kiir’s Dinka loyalists.
DEMANDS FOR A FAIR TRIAL
Human Rights Watch has urged authorities to ensure that Machar’s trial meets international standards of fairness.
Observers warn that authorities must provide transparent evidence to prevent the trial from appearing as political persecution.
Analysts caution that pursuing Riek Machar unfairly, while he faces treason charges, could trigger renewed instability in South Sudan.
Regional actors continue urging leaders to balance justice with peace.
