South Sudan's First Vice-President Riek Machar has been charged with murder, treason and crimes against humanity in a move that some fear could reignite the country's civil war.
Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech stated the charges relate to a militia attack in March allegedly linked to Machar.
The roads leading to his residence in Juba are currently blocked by tanks and soldiers, heightening the level of tension in the capital.
Previously, forces loyal to Machar engaged in a five-year civil war against those backing President Salva Kiir, which concluded with a peace deal in 2018.
Since March, Machar has been under house arrest, as calls for calm have been issued by the UN, African Union, and neighboring countries.
The 2018 peace agreement ended a conflict that resulted in the deaths of nearly 400,000 individuals, yet Machar's and Kiir's relationship continues to deteriorate amid rising ethnic tensions and sporadic violence.
In addition to Machar, seven others, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Army Deputy Chief of Staff Lt Gen Gabriel Duop Lam, face similar charges. Another 13 suspects are reportedly still at large.
The violent incident in March was perpetuated by the White Army militia, composed primarily of fighters from Machar's Nuer ethnic group, who attacked an army base in Nasir, killing 250 soldiers.
Justice Minister Akech emphasized that this case serves as a warning that those committing atrocities will be held accountable regardless of their position. Machar has not yet commented on the accusations concerning the attack.
Since its independence in 2011, South Sudan has grappled with ongoing instability, confirming the fragility of peace in the world's newest nation.
