The high-profile trial of opposition figure Riek Machar was temporarily halted Friday after judges raised concerns about inconsistencies in prosecution documents.
The delay followed the presentation of a digital forensic report by the prosecution’s final witness. The defence argued that the report submitted to court differed from the original version, citing mismatched pages and unclear references.
Judge Stephen Simon Isaac said the court could not proceed with cross-examination under the circumstances.
“We cannot go ahead with cross-examination because of complications in the document,” he said, announcing an adjournment until February 16, 2026, to allow the prosecution to correct and reorganize the files.
Defence lawyer Deng John Deng formally requested that the court provide an authentic copy of the original forensic report to ensure a fair review of the evidence.
Machar and seven others are facing serious allegations linked to a March 2025 assault on a military base in Nasir. The charges include treason, crimes against humanity, terrorism, and destruction of property.
The trial is being heard by a three-judge panel, while a team of 13 prosecutors and six defence lawyers are representing the respective sides.
The adjournment marks another procedural hurdle in a case that has drawn significant national and international attention.
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