South Sudan’s Supreme Court has adjourned the third day of hearings in the high-profile trial of First Vice President Dr Riek Machar and seven co-accused. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court announced that proceedings will resume on Monday, 29 September, allowing judges more time to review the extensive documents submitted by both prosecution and defence.

During Friday’s session, government prosecutors challenged the legitimacy of two defence lawyers, claiming their licences had expired and therefore they could not represent the accused. The defence team dismissed the claim, insisting their legal standing remained valid. Despite the legal disputes, Dr Machar and his co-accused remain in custody.

Heavy military presence has surrounded the court throughout the hearings, with armed forces blocking roads and restricting access. Human rights activists have criticised these measures, arguing that the trial should remain open to the public. They also condemned the decision to bar independent media from covering the case during the first two days of proceedings.

The trial has drawn significant international attention, with global legal experts and diplomatic observers closely monitoring developments. This marks the first time a figure of such senior political standing has faced trial in South Sudan since the country’s independence in 2011.