Nasir trial third accused Gatwech Lam Pouch has told the court that several top current and former government officials fueled regional tensions before the March 2025 attack on the military garrison

Appearing before the court during the session in Juba on Friday, Nasir County lawmaker Gatwech Lam Pouch rejected charges against him, insisting that his actions and statements were part of his responsibilities as a representative.

Lam told the court that the case against him centers on allegations: remarks he made during a press conference while serving as a member of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), and a report presented by Prosecution Witness No. 13, which links him to activities conducted through WhatsApp.

The lawmaker argued that his statements were aimed at reducing tensions in Nasir and Ulang County, not inciting violence. According to him, concerns had emerged following reports of barges moving from Malakal to Nasir and rumors of a disarmament exercise.

He said lawmakers from the areas organized a press conference to appeal to leaders to allow members of parliament to engage with communities, address fears, and counter misinformation.

“Our demand was to engage our constituents, de-escalate tensions, and address rumors surrounding the disarmament exercise,” Lam told the court. “Our intention was not to incite conflict but to prevent one.”

Lam emphasized that he has represented Nasir County for more than 15 years, having been elected during Sudan’s 2010 elections before South Sudan gained independence. He argued that remaining silent while tensions mounted would have been a failure of his duty to the people he represents.

The accused also urged the court to view the events of March 3 and 4, 2025, within a context, citing challenges surrounding the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.

In his defense, Lam named officials whom he accused of blaming individuals linked to Nasir before an investigation had been completed.

Those he named included Vice President Taban Deng Gai, former Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, Justice Minister Michael Makuei Lueth, Cabinet Affairs Minister Martin Elia Lomuro, Defense Minister Chol Thon, former Chief of Defence Forces Dr. Paul Nang Majok, Upper Nile Governor James Koang Chol, Lt. Gen. Johnson Olony Thabo, Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny, and Public Service Minister Ezekiel Lul Gatkuoth.

Earlier in the proceedings, the court concluded its examination of the accused, Mam Pal Dhoul. During questioning by a panel, Mam denied allegations that he had links to youth groups in Nasir, maintaining that no relationship or support existed.

The trial stems from the attack on the Nasir garrison in Upper Nile State in March 2025. The violence resulted in the death of an SSPDF general and casualties among troops and groups operating in the area.

The court adjourned the case until Monday, June 15, 2026, when Gatwech Lam is expected to continue presenting his defense.