South Sudan’s First Vice-President Riek Machar has been charged with homicide, treason and crimes in opposition to humanity in a transfer that some concern might reignite the nation’s civil battle.
Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech stated the costs in opposition to Machar relate to an assault in March by a militia allegedly linked to the vice-president.
The roads resulting in his home within the capital, Juba, have been blocked by tanks and troopers.
Forces loyal to Machar fought a five-year civil battle in opposition to these backing President Salva Kiir till a 2018 peace deal ending the combating on the earth’s latest nation.
Machar has been below home arrest since March, with the UN, African Union and neighbouring nations all calling for calm.
The 2018 peace deal ended the battle that had killed practically 400,000 individuals, nevertheless the connection between Machar and Kiir has turn into more and more strained amid ethnic tensions and sporadic violence.
The March assault was carried out by the White Ant militia, largely made up of fighters from the Nuer ethnic group, the identical as Machar.
They overran a military base within the north-eastern city of Nasir, reportedly killing 250 troopers and a normal. A UN helicopter additionally got here below hearth, resulting in the demise of its pilot.
“This case sends a transparent message: those that commit atrocities in opposition to the individuals of South Sudan, in opposition to our armed forces, and in opposition to humanitarian personnel can be held accountable, regardless of their place or political affect,” Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech stated in an announcement.
Machar has not commented on the allegation that he was behind the assault.
South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in 2011 following a long time of battle.
However inside two years, civil battle broke out.
Further reporting by the BBC’s Nichola Mandil in Juba
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