The highly anticipated session, held at Freedom Hall, had convened with all parties present—including the accused individuals, state prosecutors, and the defence team—before proceedings were unexpectedly disrupted.
Presiding Judge James Alala Deng informed the courtroom that Judge Stephen Simon, one of the three members of the special panel, was taken ill and required immediate medical attention.
“Panel is incomplete; one of the members is sick. He is receiving treatment. Therefore, we are going to adjourn the session to Wednesday, December 10,” Judge Deng announced.
He then directed prosecutors and defence lawyers to stand down for three days and prepare to resume the cross-examination of witnesses upon their return.
The adjournment adds another delay to one of the most closely watched trials in the country’s recent history. Machar, who was suspended earlier this year, and his co-accused face multiple grave charges, including treason, crimes against humanity, mass murder, terrorism, and destruction of property.
These charges stem from a deadly assault in March 2025 on an army base in Nasir, an incident that claimed the life of Majur, a senior military officer, along with dozens of soldiers. The government alleges that the attack was orchestrated by SPLM-IO leaders loyal to Machar, an accusation the defence strongly disputes.
The eight individuals standing trial alongside Machar are: Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chuol, 40; SPLM-IO Deputy Chair for Information Mam Pal Dhuor, 37; veteran politician Gatwech Lam Puoch, 66; Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, 53; Kamilo Gatmai Kel, 47; Mading Yak Riek, 45; and Dominic Gatgok Riek, 27.
