The Special Court hearing on the high-profile Nasir Incident case has been postponed to Friday after prosecutors requested an adjournment, citing exhaustion of their lead investigator following the presentation of key witness statements.
The investigator, who testified about four of the accused individuals, was said to be too fatigued to continue proceedings on Wednesday.
Defense lawyers objected to the request, arguing that the trial should proceed without delay.
However, the bench sided with the prosecution, rescheduling the next session to October 4, 2025.
In a procedural decision, judges also ruled that cameras and recording devices would remain outside the courtroom for the duration of sensitive testimonies.
The measure, they said, is aimed at protecting witnesses and suspects from public exposure as they give evidence in a politically charged and high-stakes trial.
“The court must ensure the safety and dignity of those appearing before it,” the bench stated, adding that media access could be reconsidered in the future if provisions in the law allow it.
Until then, journalists will continue to receive updates from official court communications and statements delivered outside the courtroom.
The Special Court was established in mid-2025 to try individuals accused of orchestrating or participating in mass atrocities in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, during violent clashes in March 2025.
Among the accused are several senior SPLM-IO officials and allies of suspended First Vice President Riek Machar, who face charges including murder, terrorism, and destruction of property.
The proceedings are closely watched by legal experts, human rights groups, and international observers, all viewing the trial as a litmus test for the country’s commitment to accountability.
