The Special Court hearing the case against eight senior SPLM/A-IO officials, including First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny and Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, was on Wednesday adjourned to Friday, November 14, following a sudden electricity outage at the court premises in Juba.
The 20th session was scheduled for the three-judge panel to question the lead investigator, Maj. Gen. Basilio Thomas Wani, on the investigation process and evidence collection in the ongoing case.
The defense team was also expected to file its response to the prosecution’s application for witness protection and the appointment of a court interpreter.
However, proceedings came to an abrupt halt after the courtroom was plunged into darkness due to power failure. Presiding judge Dr. James Alala Deng announced the adjournment, citing the lack of electricity as the reason.
“I think because of lack of electricity power, the session has been adjourned to next tomorrow, 14th November,” Judge Deng declared.
Since its commencement, the trial has attracted wide public and political interest, with each session drawing attention to the ongoing tensions between the SPLM factions and the broader implications for South Sudan’s fragile peace process.
The court is expected to resume the hearing on Friday, November 14, to continue questioning the investigator and review pending submissions from both sides.
