The 15th session of the high-profile trial of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused SPLM/A-IO members ended Monday amid intense courtroom exchanges, with proceedings adjourned to Friday, October 31.
The session saw a fiery cross-examination of lead investigator Basilo Wani by Head Defense Advocate Kur Lual, exposing inconsistencies and procedural gaps that left the court grappling with unanswered questions.
Key revelations included: Search & Seizure Confusion: Wani admitted Machar was searched only once before arrest, later contradicting his own statements about being present.
Unreported Evidence: Six mobile phones and a computer seized from Machar’s residence were never documented in court, reportedly handed directly to the National Security Service.
Missing Funds: SSP 3 million allegedly taken from a co-accused’s home remains unaccounted for.
Premature Arrests: The first three accused were detained before any formal investigation or report was filed.
International Transfers & Legality: Electronics sent to South Africa for further investigation lacked formal intergovernmental agreements, and Wani could not confirm constitutional support for joint investigations.
Nasir Incident Accountability: Wani declined to answer questions about five senior officials’ involvement.
The next session is expected to continue under regional judicial review, focusing on further cross-examination of the lead investigator.
