South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has formally charged eight individuals, including First Vice President Riek Machar, in connection with the deadly Nasir Incident that resulted in the deaths of several army officers, including senior General Majur Dak. The charges—ranging from murder and treason to crimes against humanity—also include allegations of conspiracy, financing terrorist activities, destruction of public and military property, and incitement of violence in Nasir County.
Joseph Geng Akech, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, has revealed that 76 individuals were discharged due to insufficient evidence.
He stated that the eight accused face charges of murder, conspiracy, common intention, terrorism, financing terrorist acts, treason, and acts against state authority, as well as destruction of public property and military assets, and crimes against humanity.
“The investigations into the Nasir incident have revealed that out of 83 suspects, 21 individuals have been indicted, eight are under arrest and charged, 13 accused remain at large, and 76 individuals were discharged due to a lack of sufficient evidence against them.”
“The accused have been informed of their constitutional rights, including the right to a fair trial and legal representation. The case will proceed to trial, where the prosecution will present evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt,” Akech stated during a press conference.
He revealed that the eight individuals charged include Dr. Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon, Mr. Puot Kang Chol, Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, Mr. Mam Pal Dhuor, Mr. Gatwich Lam Puoch, Brig. Gen. Camilo Gatmai Kel,Mr. Mading Riek Yak, and Mr. Dominic Gatrgok Riek.
Akech explained that the charges filed against the accused are based on South Sudanese and international laws, which include: Murder (Penal Code Act, 2008, Section 206) for the deaths Gen. David Majour, more than 250 SSPDF soldiers, and a UN staff member.
“Conspiracy and common intention (Penal Code Act, 2008, Sections 67-69) for coordinating with the White Army; terrorism and financing terrorist acts (AML/CFT Act, 2012, as amended in 2024), as the White Army has been designated a terrorist organisation,” Akech said.
In March 2025, the White Army launched a coordinated attack on the Nasir Barracks of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, resulting in the deaths of Maj. Gen. David Majur Dak, a UN pilot, and over 250 SSPDF soldiers.
