Next Monday, September 22, a special court in Juba is set to begin hearing the trial of Dr. Riek Machar, suspended First Vice President of South Sudan, according to his legal team.

Lead defence attorney, Kur Lual Kur, confirmed that legal proceedings will commence at 9:00 AM, and that all the accused have been formally summoned.

Speaking to Eye Radio, Kur said he has met with Machar and co-accused several times this week, saying they are in good health and ready for court.

He indicated that Monday’s first session will also reveal key court details: the identity of the president and members of the special court, its mandate, and powers as defined by the court formation order, which will be issued by the Chief Justice.

Last week, Machar was suspended following an indictment by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. He, along with others including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chuol, are charged with offences such as murder, treason, conspiracy, financing acts of terrorism, acts against state authorities, and crimes against humanity.

These charges stem from violent clashes in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, in March, during which a Sudan People’s Defence Forces general and several soldiers were killed.