Suspended First Vice President and SPLM-IO leader Dr. Riek Machar Teny has told a special court in Juba that prosecutors have blocked his regular access to defense lawyers and newspapers.

During the 100th session of the trial, Machar—the fifth accused in the case related to the Nasir Incident—raised the concerns directly before the panel of judges. He stated that security personnel, acting on instructions from the prosecution, have prevented him from consulting his legal team freely and restricted delivery of newspapers.

“Advocate Regina usually gives us sweets, but she was stopped,” Machar told the court. “Advocates usually give us newspapers, even those that have stayed for two days, but now they are stopped.”

He described the measures as intimidation by the prosecution and requested protection for himself and his defense team. Machar emphasized that these restrictions hinder his ability to prepare his defense against the government’s charges.

Machar specifically accused Lead Prosecutor Ajo Ony’Ohisa of intimidating defense lawyers. He explained that his team assists with typing documents, which requires their visits.

Prosecutor Ony’Ohisa rejected the allegations, asking Machar to provide specific details of any intimidation. He also pointed out that Machar had appeared in court wearing a tie, violating court procedures.

Presiding Judge James Alala Deng criticized the defense lawyers for failing to fulfill their responsibilities, leaving the accused to speak for themselves. He instructed the defense team to communicate with their clients through proper channels and submit any statements in writing.

The judge clarified several procedural points: document exchanges between lawyers and clients are allowed; the prosecution cannot directly instruct security without court approval; meetings must occur with prior written permission; and access to newspapers and magazines requires court approval. He also banned items like sweets or water without permission and prohibited ties in court for security reasons.

Machar and his seven co-accused—Puot Kang Chuol, Mam Pal Dhuor, Gatwech Lam Puohc, Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, Camilo Gatmai Kel, Mading Yak Riek, and Dominic Gatgok Riek—face serious charges including murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity. They deny all allegations related to the March 2025 attack on the Nasir military garrison.