Judge orders Machar to remove necktie in court

• Judge James Alala Deng ordered Dr. Riek Machar to remove his necktie during the Special Court's 101st sitting.
• The directive follows a previous court order prohibiting accused persons from wearing ties during proceedings.
• Machar and seven co-accused face charges including murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity.
• Prosecutors allege that SPLA-IO forces killed 257 South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldiers during an attack on the Nasir military garrison in March 2025.

Accused Number 5 should not continue wearing neckties; all of them are equal before the law and should not wear ties during sessions.

During the 101st sitting of the Special Court, Presiding Judge James Alala Deng ordered Dr. Riek Machar to remove his necktie before proceeding with the hearing from Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam. This directive follows a previous court order made last Friday prohibiting accused persons from wearing ties during proceedings. The lead prosecutor raised the issue after observing that Machar had appeared at the 101st court session wearing a necktie despite the earlier order. Machar's lawyer opposed the prosecution's objection, arguing that the previous court order did not automatically apply to his client. However, Justice Alala stated that all accused persons are equal before the law and should not wear ties during sessions.

The Special Court is trying the Nasir Incident case, which involves seven co-accused, including Machar, facing charges such as murder, conspiracy, terrorism, treason, destruction of public property, and crimes against humanity. Prosecutors allege that SPLA-IO forces allied with the White Army killed 257 South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldiers during an attack on the Nasir military garrison in March 2025. They also claim that military equipment worth about $58 million was destroyed or seized. The defendants deny the charges, and the trial is ongoing.

This development highlights the importance of compliance with court orders and directives, particularly in high-profile cases. Lawyers advising clients involved in similar proceedings should ensure they are aware of any specific rules or restrictions imposed by the court. The judge's decision to order Machar to remove his necktie demonstrates that even high-ranking officials must adhere to court protocols. This case serves as a reminder that compliance with court orders is essential for maintaining the integrity and fairness of the legal process.

This development highlights the importance of compliance with court orders and directives, particularly in high-profile cases. Lawyers advising clients involved in similar proceedings should ensure they are aware of any specific rules or restrictions imposed by the court.

Source: Original reporting via [Source]