The special court hearing the trial of former First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused on Friday dismissed Machar’s application to play video footage during the proceedings, ruling that the request is premature.
Machar, a 74-year-old opposition leader, had sought permission to play videos featuring senior government officials to support his arguments in the ongoing trial.
Presiding Judge Dr. James Alala Deng dismissed the application during the 123rd session of the trial, saying the proceedings had not yet reached the stage at which the proposed video evidence could be considered.
“The court dismissed the application as premature as proceedings had not yet reached the stage at which the proposed video evidence could be considered,” Deng said.
Deng said Machar should first focus on understanding and responding to the specific offences he is accused of committing.
He maintained that evidence would be considered at the appropriate stage of the proceedings, in accordance with established procedures.
Deng reiterated that the court had not yet framed the charges, making the application premature.
“The evidence would be considered at the appropriate stage of the proceedings and that the accused would have an opportunity to respond in accordance with the applicable procedures,” he said.
Deng urged Machar to concentrate on the charges against him and refrain from commenting on previous court decisions or matters unrelated to the issues currently before the court.
He warned against turning the proceedings into a political rally, emphasising that all accused persons should be treated equally before the court and are expected to comply with its rules.
Investigations into threats
Deng said an investigation into threats against Machar, his defence team and his co-accused had been completed. He said the matter would be referred to the relevant authorities, including the attorney general and the police.
Lead prosecutor Ajo Ony’Ohisa Igele opposed the application, arguing that it is premature and that the fifth accused should focus on responding to the charges against him rather than introducing video footage at this stage of the proceedings.
Defence’s response
Defence counsel Dr. Geri Raymond Legge challenged the prosecution’s position, arguing that the court should consider the application.
He denied allegations that the defence had turned the proceedings into a political rally and maintained that the videos are intended to bring the matter to the attention of the wider public.
The court adjourned the proceedings to October 26, 2026, when the examination of the fifth accused is expected to continue.
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