JubaWire

  ‎Juba, South Sudan  ‎ The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has taken a major step toward enhancing access to legal knowledge by receiving 40,000 printed copies of two foundational transitional justice laws. The handover was supported by the European Union.  ‎ ‎Key Laws and Purpose ‎The two laws now in print are: ‎Compensation and Reparation Authority Act, 2024 ‎Commission for Truth, Reconciliation, and Healing Act, 2024  ‎ ‎These statutes underpin South Sudan’s process of healing and accountability after years of conflict.  ‎ The Commission for Truth, Reconciliation, and Healing (CTRH) is tasked with addressing root causes of conflict, promoting national dialogue, and guiding a path toward reconciliation.  ‎ The Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) will focus on delivering reparative support to victims.  ‎ ‎The Handover & Significance ‎EU Ambassador to South Sudan, Pelle Enarsson, officially handed over the printed volumes to...

‎ South Sudan National Football Team Head Coach Mr. Nicolas Dupuis.  ‎Juba, South Sudan, October 11, 2025. ‎ ‎South Sudan national football team head coach Nicolas Dupuis has apologized to fans following the Bright Stars’ heavy 5-0 loss to Senegal in Friday’s international match at Juba National Stadium. ‎ ‎Speaking at the post-match press conference, the French tactician admitted the result was painful and disappointing but emphasized that the team remains focused on improvement. ‎ ‎“I want to correct some clumsy remarks I made in the heat of the moment after the match,” Dupuis said. “I was deeply affected by our many individual mistakes, though I was happy with how we played in the first half.” ‎ ‎Dupuis took full responsibility for the defeat and expressed appreciation to the South Sudan Football Federation (SSFA) for its continued support.  ‎ ‎He praised the federation’s efforts to professionalize the national team’s environment, citing improved facilities and accommodatio...

Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro.  ‎Juba, South Sudan, October 11, 2025 ‎ ‎Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro has called on commercial banks operating in South Sudan to end what he described as unfair and discriminatory practices of denying loans to South Sudanese entrepreneurs while extending credit facilities to foreigners. ‎ ‎Speaking during the launch of the country’s first Interbank Payment and Settlement System in Juba, Dr. Lomuro expressed concern that local business owners and young professionals continue to face barriers when seeking financial support from banks. ‎ ‎“Our own people cannot access loans to build homes or start businesses, yet foreigners are being given credit with ease,” Dr. Lomuro said. “This must stop if we are to build a sustainable economy for South Sudan.” ‎ ‎The senior minister said the reluctance of banks to finance South Sudanese-owned enterprises has become a major obstacle to economic growth and job creation.  ‎ He ...

  Bank of South Sudan Headquarters, Juba.  ‎JUBA, October 10, 2025  ‎ The Bank of South Sudan has officially launched the country’s first-ever Interbank Payment and Settlement System (IPSS), a groundbreaking platform that enables banks to process and settle payments instantly 24 hours a day, seven days a week. ‎ ‎The new system, commissioned on Thursday in Juba, marks a major milestone in the country’s financial modernization efforts.  ‎ It allows real-time transfer of funds and securities between banks, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and security across the banking sector. ‎ ‎Speaking during the launch, Central Bank officials said the innovation will significantly reduce transaction delays and operational risks caused by manual clearing processes.  ‎ The system is also expected to strengthen the bank’s ability to manage liquidity and implement effective monetary policies. ‎ ‎“This system will enable real-time payments and settlements at any time of the day...

‎ ‎Nairobi, Kenya  ‎ Kenya’s President William Ruto has officially taken over as the new Chairperson of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), succeeding Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye.  ‎ The transition occurred during the 24th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit held in Nairobi on Thursday.  ‎ ‎Key Highlights & Strategic Priorities ‎1. Leadership Transition & Summit Attendance ‎ ‎President Ruto’s elevation comes at a critical time for regional integration efforts. ‎ ‎The summit drew heads of state, government envoys, and representatives from the African Union and development partners.  ‎ ‎South Sudan, while not a full member of COMESA, participates through the Regional Customs Transit Guarantee (RCTG) scheme.  ‎ ‎2. Focus on Economic & Social Integration ‎In his inaugural address, Ruto emphasized narrowing economic and social divides across member states: ‎ ‎“At the heart of our mission are our people and our sha...

  SSPDF  ‎Date: October 10, 2025 ‎Location: Cueibet County, Lakes State, South Sudan ‎ ‎Cueibet, Lakes State Two civilians were fatally shot by members of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) in Cueibet County late Thursday night, a government official confirmed Friday.  ‎ The killings triggered a retaliatory armed attack by local youth, resulting in the death of one soldier.  ‎ ‎Sequence of Events ‎According to William Koji Kerjok, the acting State Minister of Information, the incident unfolded after a military officer reported being “surrounded” and requested assistance.  ‎ When responding SSPDF units arrived, they encountered a gathering of more than 40 armed youth, and an exchange of gunfire ensued. Kerjok said: ‎“In the process, two of these armed youth were killed.” ‎“When the soldiers returned to their base, the armed youth attacked in retaliation, killing one soldier.”  ‎ ‎The state government says the situation is now “contained” and tha...

Former Eastern Equatoria State Minister of Legal and Parliamentary Affair, Mr. Joseph Opio Wilson Okullo ‎Date: October 10, 2025 ‎Location: Torit, Eastern Equatoria, South Sudan ‎ ‎The government of Eastern Equatoria state has formally announced legal proceedings against former Minister of Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Joseph Opio Wilson Okullo, who is accused of continuing to assert ministerial authority despite having been impeached nearly three years ago.  ‎ ‎Impeachment and Ongoing Dispute ‎In December 2022, the state’s transitional legislative assembly removed Okullo from his position over allegations that he had unauthorizedly sold a ministry vehicle.  He was succeeded by Peter Gumbo, who like Okullo is affiliated with the Other Political Party (OPP).  ‎ ‎Yet, according to Elia John Ahaji, the current state Minister of Information, Okullo has persistently represented himself to foreign missions, private institutions, and the media as though he still holds minist...

Somalia President Hon. Sheikh Mohamud. ‎Mogadishu, October 8, 2025   ‎ In a landmark decision, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has announced that Swahili will be formally introduced into Somalia’s education curriculum, strengthening the country’s integration into the the East African Community (EAC).  ‎ ‎Somalia, which joined the EAC in early 2024, will now teach Swahili alongside its existing official languages Somali, Arabic, and English.   The move reflects Mogadishu’s strategic vision to align more closely with its regional neighbors and strengthen cultural and economic ties.  ‎ “Adopting Swahili is important for our integration into the region,” President Mohamud declared at the EAC summit in Mogadishu.  ‎Why This Matters ‎Regional unity & identity: Swahili is already an official language of the EAC, used across East Africa to facilitate communication, trade, and cultural exchange.  ‎ ‎Practical benefits: Many Somalis in Kenya and Tanzani...

SSFA President Mr. Francis Amin and (SPESP) Adult Salva.  JUBA, October 9, 2025  The President of the South Sudan Football Federation (SSFA), Francis Amin, today led his executive team in a courtesy visit to Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs, Adut Salva, to express appreciation for her steadfast support toward the national football team, the Bright Stars. During the meeting, Amin presented Adut Salva with a South Sudan national team jersey bearing her name a symbolic gesture recognizing her continuous encouragement and commitment to the growth of sports in the country. “We deeply appreciate Madam Adut’s unwavering support to our national team and her inspiring role in promoting sports development across South Sudan,” said Amin after the meeting. Adut, who has been a strong advocate for youth empowerment through sports, expressed her gratitude to the federation and reaffirmed her commitment to rally behind the Bright Stars as they prepare for their crucial World Cup...

‎ President Kiir (South Sudan) and Deputy President Paul Mashatile (SA).  ‎ JUBA, October 9, 2025  ‎ President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday held high-level discussions with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile in Juba, focusing on accelerating the implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement. ‎ ‎Mashatile, who also serves as South Africa’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, engaged with government officials, political leaders, and peace stakeholders during his visit, seeking ways to fast-track the peace process and consolidate stability in the country. ‎ ‎Speaking after the meeting, South Sudan’s Ambassador to South Africa, Amb. Simon Duku, said the visit aims to deepen political cooperation and bolster support for South Sudan’s peace roadmap. ‎ ‎“This engagement is crucial for ensuring a peaceful and democratic transition,” Duku noted, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration between Juba and Pretoria. ‎ ‎South Africa’s Ambassador to South Sudan,...

JUBA, October 9, 2025  President Salva Kiir Mayardit has directed the newly appointed Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Dr. Paul Nang Majok, to spearhead comprehensive reforms within the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and ensure professionalism across all ranks. Speaking during the official swearing-in ceremony held in Juba on Thursday, President Kiir urged Dr. Majok to uphold military discipline and steer clear of political interference, warning that the army must remain neutral and focused on safeguarding national sovereignty. “The military must stay away from politics and serve the people of South Sudan with integrity and neutrality,” Kiir stated. “I expect the new Chief of Defence Forces to prioritise the welfare of soldiers and lead by example.” President Kiir pledged full government support to efforts aimed at modernising the national army and improving the living conditions of the organized forces. Dr. Paul Nang Majok replaces Gen. Dau Aturjong, who was relieved of...

‎ ‎Juba, South Sudan - October 9, 2025: ‎ The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) has confirmed the release of its member, Alfred Gatmai Koang, who was arrested by the National Security Service (NSS) on Wednesday during the ongoing trial of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused at Freedom Hall in Juba. ‎Arrest and Release Details ‎In a statement issued by SPLM-IO Youth League spokesperson Gattiek Wichar, Alfred Gatmai who serves as the Information Secretary of the SPLM-IO Caucus of Mayom County in Juba was released on Thursday afternoon, roughly a day after his detention. ‎ ‎Wichar said Gatmai was arrested inside Freedom Hall while attending the high-profile trial of Dr. Machar, which has drawn significant political and public attention nationwide. ‎ ‎“The national security didn’t provide any details surrounding his unlawful arrest,” the SPLM-IO statement reads. “Security officials insisted that Cde. Alfred Gatmai defied the search order while...

‎ ‎Juba, South Sudan, October 9, 2025   ‎ The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has pledged to intensify security along the Juba-Bor highway, especially around Mogiri, following a fatal ambush that claimed at least one life.  ‎ ‎Ambush Details & Impact ‎On Tuesday morning, two public passenger vehicles were attacked about 40 km from Juba, near the Mogiri junction.  ‎ One vehicle was “sprayed with bullets,” according to SSPDF spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang.   He confirmed that one passenger died in the attack, and another was wounded suffering a gunshot to the head or neck. The perpetrators remain unknown.  ‎ ‎The Mogiri stretch has become a notorious “black spot” for such attacks, with multiple ambushes already recorded in the area.  ‎ ‎SSPDF Response & Measures ‎Major General Lul emphasized that security will be beefed up along the highway, particularly in vulnerable sections, to deter further violence and protect ci...

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin from his position as the Minister of Transport and appointed Hon. Rizik Zachariah Hassan as his replacement in a presidential decree read on the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Tuesday evening. ‎ ‎The decree did not specify reasons for Dr. Akol’s removal, but political analysts say the change comes amid mounting concerns over inefficiency and internal wrangles within the Ministry of Transport, particularly over the management of infrastructure projects and transport safety reforms. ‎ ‎Rizik Zachariah, who previously served as the Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State, is a seasoned politician and close ally of President Kiir.  ‎ His appointment is seen as part of a wider government reshuffle aimed at improving service delivery and ensuring loyalty within key ministries as South Sudan heads toward the anticipated national elections. ‎ ‎Dr. Lam Akol, a veteran opposition figure and leader...

President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed General Dau Aturjong Nyuol from his position as the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and re-appointed General Paul Nang Majok to the powerful military post. The decree, announced on state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Tuesday night, did not specify the reason for the abrupt change in command.  However, sources within the military say the move could be part of broader efforts by the President to reassert control over the army amid growing internal and regional tensions. Gen. Paul Nang Majok previously held the same position before being replaced by Gen. Dau Aturjong earlier this year.  His return to the top military office signals renewed trust from the President and possibly a shift in the SSPDF’s leadership approach as the country faces multiple security and political challenges. The reshuffle comes at a critical time when the army is engaged in several operation...

‎JUBA, October 8, 2025 ‎ South Sudan’s security forces on Wednesday barred independent journalists from covering the ongoing trial of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, sparking outrage among media groups and human rights defenders who say the move is a serious setback for judicial transparency and press freedom in the country. ‎ ‎Despite earlier assurances that the Special Court proceedings would remain open to the public, only state-run media particularly the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC)  were allowed access to Freedom Hall, where the trial is being held under tight security.  ‎ Independent reporters from several local and international outlets were turned away without explanation. ‎ ‎ ‎Media Block Sparks Outcry ‎The Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) and the South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN) condemned the move, calling it a deliberate attempt to suppress information and control public perception. ‎ ‎“The c...

‎JUBA – South Sudan  ‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has reportedly directed the immediate withdrawal of Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) troops from South Sudan, but Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has insisted his soldiers will not leave until outstanding payments owed by the government of South Sudan are settled in full. ‎ ‎According to reliable sources within the security establishment, the Ugandan forces estimated at over 5,000 soldiers were initially deployed in South Sudan under a private arrangement facilitated by businessman and Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, reportedly to support government operations in key conflict zones. ‎However, the partnership has now hit a financial deadlock as huge arrears continue to accumulate. Each UPDF soldier is said to be entitled to $200 per day, meaning the total cost runs into millions of dollars every month. ‎ ‎“General Muhoozi has made it clear that Uganda will not withdra...

‎Juba, October 8, 2025  ‎ The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) has announced the successful recapture of Katiba area in Mundri East County, Western Equatoria State, following intense fighting with a coalition of National Salvation Front (NAS) and SPLM-IO forces. ‎ ‎According to the SSPDF spokesperson, government troops launched a strategic counter-offensive early this week to reclaim the area, which had reportedly fallen under opposition control last month. ‎ ‎“Our forces have regained full control of Katiba and restored government authority in the area after pushing out joint NAS and SPLM-IO elements,” the army statement said. ‎ ‎The military described the operation as “decisive and professional,” emphasizing that it was aimed at protecting civilians and restoring peace along the Yambio–Mundri corridor, a vital trade and transport route connecting Western Equatoria to the central region. ‎ Clashes and Displacement ‎Local sources confirmed heavy gunfire during the confro...

‎ Justice Minister Hon. Joseph Geng Akech  October 8, 2025 | Juba, South Sudan ‎ ‎South Sudan’s fragile peace is once again under strain as the government’s insistence on proceeding with the trial of Dr. Riek Machar the suspended First Vice President and key opposition leader continues to ignite political and diplomatic controversy. ‎ ‎The latest warning from Justice Minister Joseph Geng Akech, cautioning against public commentary on the trial, underscores a widening rift between the rule of law narrative advanced by the government and the political dialogue demanded by peace partners. ‎ ‎Balancing Justice and Peace ‎The Justice Minister’s stern statement that “matters in court are not discussed outside” is grounded in legal procedure.  ‎ Yet, in the current political climate, it has broader implications signaling the administration’s determination to keep the Machar trial insulated from political influence, even as its consequences spill into the peace process. ‎ ‎To the gove...

‎Warrap State, South Sudan, 8 October 2025  ‎ At least 15 people have died and five others wounded in renewed fighting on the border of Athony, a government-designated buffer zone, according to local officials.  ‎ ‎Clash Details & Casualties ‎Twic County Commissioner Mabior Marup confirmed that the confrontation began Monday evening and continued into Tuesday morning.  ‎ ‎Initially, eight soldiers from both sides reportedly lost their lives.  ‎ ‎By the following day, the conflict flared again, resulting in seven additional deaths, bringing the total to 15.  ‎ ‎Among the fatalities: eight SSPDF soldiers, six SPLA-IO fighters, and one civilian caught in crossfire.  ‎ ‎Five SSPDF soldiers were injured and are receiving treatment.  ‎ ‎Trigger & Aftermath ‎Marup attributed the flare-up partly to heightened tensions around the ongoing high-profile trial of suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and eight co-accused.   ‎ He added tha...

‎ ‎Juba, October 7, 2025  ‎ A regional ceasefire monitor says that both the government of South Sudan and opposition forces are recruiting fighters and abducting children, sparking fresh fears that the country may slip back into full-scale civil war.  ‎ ‎Key Developments ‎The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) overseen by IGAD says South Sudan’s military in June initiated a recruitment drive for 4,000 new forces, and opened a new training center in August.  ‎ ‎Reports also indicate that all sides in the conflict have abducted or mobilized children, and there have been instances of sexual violence by combatants.  ‎ ‎Civilians have borne the brunt: from January to September 2025, civilian casualties rose by 59% compared with the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, about 321,000 people have been displaced by ongoing conflict.  ‎ ‎The armed conflict between President Salva Kiir’s forces and the opposition loyal to Riek Machar has escalated...

‎Juba, October 7, 2025  ‎ South Sudan is preparing to restart its suspended cabinet meetings next week, bringing an end to an eight-month suspension that has stalled key governmental functions.  ‎ Reason for the Halt and the Explanation ‎According to Martin Elia Lomuro, the Cabinet Affairs Minister, the pause was due to renovations in the main cabinet chamber as the government transitioned toward an “electronic cabinet” model.  ‎ He denied that the stoppage was linked to political tensions surrounding the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar.  ‎ ‎Lomuro said that even if the main hall is not yet ready, ministers will convene in a temporary venue within government premises to resume business.  ‎ ‎Consequences of the Delay ‎The Council of Ministers, South Sudan’s top executive body, last met in March 2025, and its regular Friday sessions traditionally chaired by President Salva Kiir or Machar have been on hold since.  ‎ ‎One major fallout: the 2025/2026...

‎ ‎Date: October 7, 2025 ‎Location: Between Bilyaang and Mogiri, Juba County, Central Equatoria, South Sudan ‎ ‎Gunmen ambushed a public passenger vehicle traveling from Bor (in Jonglei State) toward the capital Juba on Tuesday morning along the Juba-Bor highway, injuring two passengers and intensifying pressure to relocate a local cattle market seen as a security risk.  ‎ ‎What Happened ‎The attack occurred between Bilyaang and Mogiri in Central Equatoria.  ‎ ‎The assailants targeted a vehicle carrying over 10 passengers. They looted money and luggage from passengers, forcing many to flee into nearby forested areas.  ‎ ‎Two victims sustained head and shoulder injuries; their condition is reported to be stable. They were evacuated to Juba for medical treatment.  ‎ ‎The remaining passengers, who hid during the assault, were later located and found unharmed.  ‎ ‎Reigniting Long-Standing Demands ‎This assault has reignited demands by the Drivers’ Union in Jonglei S...

  ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has appointed Beny Gideon Mabor as the new Minister of East African Community Affairs, replacing veteran diplomat Deng Alor Kuol. ‎ ‎The appointment was announced through a Republican Decree broadcast on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Monday evening. The decree did not specify the reasons for the replacement. ‎ ‎Before his elevation to the ministerial post, Beny Gideon Mabor served as the Undersecretary in the same ministry, where he played a key role in advancing South Sudan’s regional integration efforts and strengthening cooperation with East African Community (EAC) member states. ‎ ‎Mabor’s promotion marks a significant generational shift in the ministry’s leadership and is seen as recognition of his long-standing service and institutional experience within the regional bloc. ‎ ‎As Minister, Mabor will be tasked with steering South Sudan’s participation in the EAC integration agenda, including economic harmonization, free movemen...

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has appointed Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol Ranley, the former Governor of Upper Nile State, as the new Deputy Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs. ‎ ‎The presidential decree was broadcast on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Monday evening, ending nearly two years of vacancy in the position. ‎ ‎The office of the Deputy Minister of Defence has remained unfilled since 2023, when President Kiir transferred the Defence Ministry portfolio from the SPLM-IO to the SPLM, following the dismissal of then-Minister Angelina Teny a move that sparked political controversy and strained relations between the peace partners. ‎ ‎Although the Revitalized Peace Agreement stipulates that the Deputy Minister’s post should be occupied by an SPLM-IO nominee, the opposition group led by Dr. Riek Machar boycotted the appointment, accusing President Kiir of violating the power-sharing arrangement by unilaterally reshuffling the ministry. ‎ ‎Lt. Gen. Koang’s appoin...

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed General Philip Nyon from his position as Commander of the Presidential Guards Unit, commonly known as the Tiger Division, and appointed Major General Valentino Baak Makuei as his successor. ‎ ‎The changes were announced through a Republican Decree read on state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Monday evening.  ‎ ‎The decree did not specify the reasons behind the shake-up within the elite unit responsible for protecting the President and key state institutions. ‎ ‎Maj. Gen. Valentino Baak Makuei’s appointment marks a significant shift in the leadership of one of South Sudan’s most powerful security organs.  ‎ The Tiger Division plays a central role in ensuring the safety of the presidency and maintaining stability within the capital, Juba. ‎ ‎Gen. Philip Nyon, who had served as the unit’s commander for several years, was a close ally within the military establishment.  ‎ His removal comes amid ongoing effor...

Dr. Riek Machar  ‎JUBA, South Sudan  ‎ The Special Court trying First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused on charges related to the Nasir violence has ruled that it has full jurisdiction to hear the case dismissing defense arguments that the matter falls under the yet-to-be-established Hybrid Court for South Sudan. ‎ ‎Delivering the ruling on Monday, Presiding Judge Dr. James Alala Deng said the court was legally constituted under the Judiciary Act and fully competent to proceed with the trial. ‎ ‎“There is no overlapping of jurisdiction between this Special Court and the Hybrid Court,” the judge stated, adding that since the Hybrid Court is not yet operational, “this court shall proceed to handle the matter.” ‎ ‎The ruling followed weeks of heated legal debate between the defense and the prosecution over whether the court had the authority to try South Sudan’s sitting First Vice President. ‎ ‎Prosecution: “The White Army Did Not Act Independently” ‎During toda...

Nasir County MP. Hon. Gatwech Lam Puoch ‎JUBA, South Sudan  ‎ The Special Court trying First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar and seven co-accused has granted Nasir County Member of Parliament Gatwech Lam Puoch permission to briefly visit his family following the death of his brother-in-law. ‎ ‎Gatwech, who is the third accused in the high-profile trial, requested temporary leave to attend to family matters and offer condolences after the passing of his relative. ‎ Court Allows Humanitarian Request ‎During Monday’s session, the defense team formally appealed for a compassionate leave on Gatwech’s behalf, citing the family tragedy.  ‎ The court approved the request, allowing the MP to travel under restricted conditions before resuming trial proceedings. ‎ ‎A court official confirmed that the decision was purely humanitarian, emphasizing that it would not interfere with the ongoing case schedule. ‎ ‎“The court has considered the circumstances surrounding the request and has decide...