South Sudan’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Michael Makuei Lueth, has admitted that the high-profile treason trial of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar has faced significant delays.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Makuei acknowledged that the case has taken longer than expected due to procedural challenges, particularly disputes over digital evidence and forensic reports.

“The case has experienced some delays, but these are normal in complex trials of this nature,” the minister said.

He added that the court is working to ensure a fair and transparent process.Machar and eight co-accused face serious charges including treason, murder, terrorism, and crimes against humanity.

Prosecutors allege they coordinated the March 2025 attack on an SSPDF garrison in Nasir, Upper Nile State, which killed 257 soldiers.

The trial has been repeatedly adjourned due to disagreements over access to seized phones and laptops, the authenticity of digital evidence, and the reliability of forensic analysis presented by a South African expert.

Machar has been under house arrest since March 2025, while most of the co-accused remain detained by the National Security Service.

The Justice Minister assured the public that the government is committed to the rule of law and that the case will be concluded in accordance with legal procedures.

The trial continues to attract significant local and international attention, with many observers viewing it as politically sensitive and potentially impactful on the already fragile 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.