South Sudan’s First Vice-President, Riek Machar, has been charged with murder, treason, and crimes against humanity. The charges relate to a March attack by a militia allegedly linked to him.
Heavy Security in Juba
Tanks and soldiers have blocked the roads leading to Machar’s house in Juba, the capital. He has been under house arrest since March.
Attack by White Army Militia
The attack was carried out by the White Army, a militia mostly made up of the Nuer ethnic group, which Machar belongs to. The fighters overran an army base in Nasir, killing 250 soldiers and a general. A UN helicopter was also fired upon, killing the pilot.
Allies Also Charged
Seven other people linked to Machar are also charged, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Army Deputy Chief of Staff Lt Gen Gabriel Duop Lam. They have been in detention since March. Thirteen suspects remain at large.
Government Response
Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech said the case shows that everyone will be held accountable, no matter their position. He urged people not to politicize the matter until the courts reach a decision.
Fragile Peace at Risk
Machar fought a five-year civil war against forces loyal to President Salva Kiir. The war ended in 2018 after a peace deal but killed nearly 400,000 people. Relations between Machar and Kiir remain tense.
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, is still vulnerable to ethnic tensions and sporadic violence. Observers fear that the charges could reignite conflict in the country.
