Reports indicate that Riek Machar, the First Vice President of South Sudan, was charged with treason, murder, and crimes against humanity in September 2025

The charges stem from his alleged involvement in orchestrating attacks by an ethnic militia on federal forces earlier in the year.

On September 22, 2025, South Sudan's First Vice President, Riek Machar, appeared in a courthouse in Juba to face charges of treason, murder, and crimes against humanity

. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in militia attacks against federal forces in March 2025.

Key details of the case

• Charges: Machar was formally indicted with murder, treason, and crimes against humanity, according to South Sudan's Justice Minister, Joseph Geng.
• Allegations: The charges are connected to a March 2025 attack by the White Army militia on the northeastern town of Nasir. Authorities claim that the militia operated under the command and influence of leaders from the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army-in Opposition (SPLM/A-iO), including Machar.
• Suspension: Following the charges, President Salva Kiir suspended Machar from his vice-presidency.
• Court appearance: Machar was reportedly "whisked to court" on September 22, 2025, a move that put the capital city of Juba on edge.
• Commentary: Political observers have raised concerns about the trial's fairness. Political commentator Samuel Peter Oyay described it as a "charade to eliminate any form of opposition to President Kiir".
• House arrest: Since March, Machar has been under house arrest. International organizations have repeatedly called for his release, fearing his detention could reignite the civil war.