JUBA — The Special Court trying eight senior officials of the SPLM/A-IO has ordered that upcoming hearings be held behind closed doors, excluding members of the public and the media, in a move aimed at protecting prosecution witnesses.
The decision follows an application filed by the prosecution on 10 November 2025, requesting special protective measures for witnesses it described as vulnerable and facing credible threats to their safety.
According to the prosecution, at least two incidents were reported in which family members of witnesses were allegedly attacked after the identities of some witnesses were leaked on social media platforms.
The defense team opposed the application, arguing that excluding the public and granting anonymity to witnesses undermines the accused persons’ right to a fair and open trial, as guaranteed under national and international legal frameworks.
The defense further contended that witness anonymity could prevent the accused from fully knowing and responding to the allegations against them.
In its ruling, the three-judge panel stated that it had reasonable grounds to believe that the witnesses face serious threats to their lives. The court consequently ordered that the proceedings be conducted in the absence of the public and the media.
Presiding Judge Dr. James Alala Deng also ruled that the prosecution witnesses will testify under pseudonyms. However, it remains unclear whether the witnesses will appear in person or whether additional protective measures, such as voice distortion, will be applied.
