Machar’s lawyers push for audio-video recording, cite equal protection, treatment
JUBA – Lawyers representing suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-defendants have renewed their push to obtain audio and video recordings of court proceedings, arguing that the request is aimed at ensuring equal protection and treatment in the ongoing trial.
The defense made the request during the 106th session of the trial in Juba on Monday, following a written response from the prosecution opposing their application.
During 107 sessions in Juba on Wednesday, Dr. Geri Raimondo Legge, Machar’s lead defense lawyer, told the court that the request was intended to ensure equal treatment, noting that the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) has two video cameras covering the proceedings while the prosecution has one.
Dr. Geri argued that having its own recording equipment would enable the lawyers to maintain an independent record of the proceedings for reference as the trial progresses.
However, lead prosecutor Ajo Ony’Ohisa rejected the defense’s claim that the prosecution has a video camera for recording proceedings for its own records.
The request comes amid continuing disagreements between the defense and prosecution over procedural and evidentiary matters in the trial.
The court adjourned the session until August 17, 2026, when it is expected to rule on the defense application seeking permission to make audio and video recordings of the proceedings.
Machar and several co-accused face allegations related to the March 2025 violence in Nasir, Upper Nile State. Machar and his co-accused have denied the allegations against them.
The trial, which has drawn significant national attention due to the high-profile nature of the accused, is being presided over by Judge James Alala Deng, alongside Justices Stephen Simon and Isaac Pur Majok.
The prosecution team comprises 13 lawyers drawn from the Ministry of Justice and other legal institutions, including Counsel General Deng Achuil Adija, Dr. Sabri Wani Lado, Serafino Simon Mizan, and Filberto Mayuot Mareng.
On the defense side, six lawyers are representing the accused, including Dr. Geri Raymond Legge, Kur Lual Kur, and Anis Tombe Augustino.
Investigations into the case are being led by Major General Basile Thomas Wani, assisted by Brigadier General John Dak, while Captain Richard Gachi Apollo of the Internal Security Service is listed as the complainant.
Those standing trial alongside Machar include Puot Kang Chuol, Mam Pal Dhuor, Gatwech Lam Puoch, Lt Gen Gabriel Duop Lam, Camilo Gatmai Kel, Mading Yak Riek, and Dominic Gatgok Riek.
As proceedings continue, the court is expected to further examine the credibility and implications of digital forensic evidence in establishing alleged links between political figures and armed groups.