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 that the charges against Machar relate to an attack in March by a militia allegedly linked to the vice-president.
The roads leading to his house in the capital, Juba, have been blocked by tanks and soldiers.
Forces loyal to Machar fought a five-year civil war against those backing President Salva Kiir until a 2018 peace deal ending the fighting in the world's newest country.
Machar has been under house arrest since March, with the UN, African Union, and neighboring countries all calling for calm.
The 2018 peace deal ended the conflict that had killed nearly 400,000 people; however, the relationship between Machar and Kiir has become increasingly strained amid ethnic tensions and sporadic violence.
Seven others have been charged alongside Machar, including Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol and Army Deputy Chief of Staff Lt Gen Gabriel Duop Lam, all of whom are his allies. Another 13 suspects remain at large.
The March attack was carried out by the White Army militia, predominantly composed of fighters from the Nuer ethnic group, the same as Machar.
The attack overran an army base in Nasir, reportedly killing 250 soldiers and a general, with a UN helicopter also coming under fire, resulting in the death of its pilot.
Justice Minister Akech emphasized that the charges send a clear message that individuals committing atrocities against the South Sudanese people would be held accountable regardless of their position.
As the case is now before the courts, he urged that it should not be subject to political or diplomatic discussion until a judicial pronouncement is made.
Machar has not commented on the allegations regarding the attack.
South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 but saw civil war break out within two years.
