A Presiding judge at the Kator Court in Juba, Nicholas Makuach Bol has adjourned the case of Yei Slayed Rev. Sister Dr. Veronica Teresa Rackova after the defense team failed to show up in court on Wednesday, 31 May 2023.
The case was adjourned until June 6th to allow the presence of the other party accused of a crime who failed to turn up during the session this morning.
Court said the hearing of the first witness and complainant commences next week. The case has been ongoing since the murder of the late Reverend Sister in 2016 by suspected armed officers.
Six accused were in court, five from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and one national security officer. They all denied the charges leveled against them.
The case has garnered significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the victim and the circumstances surrounding her death.
Reverend Sister Veronica was serving as a Health worker in the Yei Catholic diocese and her murder shocked many Christians.
Her case has been closely watched by the public, with many hoping for a swift resolution for justice to prevail. The adjournment of the case has raised concerns about the efficiency of the justice system in South Sudan.
Many have criticized the delay in the trial, citing it as an example of the slow pace of justice in the country.
The case has also highlighted the need for reforms in the justice system to ensure that victims receive timely and fair trials. Despite the delay, the
The Judge’s demand that the hearing of the first witness and complainant commence next week is a positive step toward resolving the case.
It is hoped that the trial will proceed smoothly and justice will be served for Reverend Sister Veronica and her family.
A member of the Missionary Congregation of the Servants of the Holy Spirit (SSpS), Sr. Veronika, 58, was shot at and severely wounded late at night on 16 May 2016 by suspected SPLA soldiers who were on night patrol in Yei Municipality.
The shooting happened while Sr. Veronika was driving the St. Bakhita ambulance. She had just delivered to Harvester Health Centre, a patient with a complicated case needing specialized treatment and care.