More witnesses testify against S. Sudanese treason suspects
Elisabeth Janaina
More witnesses testify against S. Sudanese treason suspects
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March 26, 2014 (JUBA) – The case of the four detained South Sudanese officials continued this week with more prosecution witnesses providing evidences linking them to alleged involvement in the mid-December violence.
- South Sudan political detainees (left to right) Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, Majak d’Agoot, Pagan Amum and Oyai Deng Ajak at a trial hearing in Juba on 11 March 2014 (Photo: AFP/Andrei Pungovschi)
The four politicians, who include the ex-secretary general of the country’s ruling party (SPLM), Pagan Amum, former ministers Majak D’Agot and Oyai Deng Ajak and its former envoy to United States, Ezekiel Lul Gatkuoth face treason charges over what government says was a failed coup attempt.
The four are allies of the country’s ex-vice president, Riek Machar who denies the coup claims.
On Wednesday, Maj. Gen. Mach Paul Kuol, the director of military intelligence became the fifth witness to testify in court.
In his testimony, Gen. Mach said he became “concerned” when the ex-Unity state governor, Taban Deng Gai allegedly called him on 13 December, 2013 - two days before fighting erupted in the military barracks in Juba, to inquire about the arrest of a junior officer.
The sergeant, according to Gen. Mach, had attempted to snatch keys to the military armory on 12 December, but was arrested to be questioned for his behaviours.
“I told him [Gai] that the soldier was arrested on administrative issues connected with his work,” he said, adding that he convened a meeting of intelligence chief a day later.
“I briefed them that there is something unusual,” he said in reference to the phone call.
The director military intelligence further claimed the press release issued by the opposition politician on 6 December, who included the four now before the court “instigated” the army.
“The press statement overstepped what was a political party issue and threat national security,” he told the court session.
However, when questioned by the defense lawyers if the four politicians being tried played any role in organising the mid-December violence, he replied “no.”
James Mayen, the lead prosecutor in the ongoing case said that four state witnesses testified on Wednesday, with more were expected before court.
“There are a dozen prosecution witnesses”, he told reporters outside court premises.
Meanwhile, the lead defense lawyer Monyluak Alor insisted that the testimonies given made prosecution case “weaker and weaker”.
The case was adjourned on Tuesday after the prosecution team failed to produce witnesses. Defense witnesses will, however, be required to testify when their prosecution counterparts complete their submissions.
(ST)