JUBA – The Special Court hearing legal proceedings against eight SPLM/A-IO officials has kicked out two members of the defense team citing lack of valid licenses, while maintaining private lawyers in the prosecution team.
The expelled defense lawyers are Warnyang Kir Warnyang and Deng John Deng. The prosecution previously requested their removal, but the defense argued that they were intentionally denied chance to renew their licenses.
Meanwhile, Presiding Judge James Alala upheld the participation of private lawyers, including Ajo Joel Ohisa, adding that they should continue working alongside the prosecution team.
Alala stated that the Constitution permits the government to seek legal representation from outside the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. It added that the government therefore is entitled to enlist private lawyers to strengthen its case.
Further, the Court affirmed that it has full jurisdiction and competence to hear the case involving Dr. Riek Machar Teny, Puot Kang, and six other accused persons.
