Former First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar has denied allegations that he leads the White Army, telling the Special Court that the group consists mainly of civilians who organize themselves independently through their communities.
Machar made the denial on Monday while continuing his testimony during the 124th session of the ongoing special court trial, in which he is the fifth accused.
He told the court that members of the White Army, particularly young people, are not formally trained or organized as a standing military force.
Machar said the group has no barracks, is not registered in SPLM/A-IO documents, and does not receive military or logistical support from the movement.
He described the White Army as traditional village warriors who organize themselves through their communities and operate independently.
Machar also rejected claims that he could command the group, arguing that it lacks the military structures necessary for him to exercise authority over its members.
He further denied allegations that he led armed civilians during the conflict, saying similar groups also exist outside areas controlled by the SPLM/A-IO.
Machar told the court that former government official Kual Manyang had wrongly attributed the White Army to him by linking the group’s origins to the 1991 Nasir Declaration.
He said his role in the Nasir Declaration was related to disagreements within the SPLM/A over issues including self-determination, human rights, and democracy.
On the Nasir clashes
Machar also addressed allegations concerning the fighting in Nasir in March 2025.
He told the court that a meeting of the extended Presidency held on March 3, 2025, agreed on four measures to de-escalate the situation. These included engaging local chiefs and youth leaders and informing the public about the decisions reached.
He rejected an allegation that he had deceived former Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel during the meeting.
Machar said the meeting was chaired by President Salva Kiir and attended by other government officials and civil society representatives, disputing the allegation against him.
He also challenged claims concerning an individual identified as Thor Gile, explaining that the person had been included in a local committee as a youth leader from Nasir.
The court has adjourned the proceedings to Wednesday, October 28, 2026, when Machar is expected to continue his cross-examination statement.
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