Riek Machar is a South Sudanese politician and former military leader. He was born on January 18, 1953, and has played a significant role in the country's history, particularly during its struggle for independence from Sudan. Machar served as the Vice President of South Sudan and has been a key figure in the country's political landscape since its formation in 2011. Throughout his career, Machar has been involved in various conflicts and peace negotiations, often opposing President Salva Kiir. His leadership has been marked by both support and controversy, as he has led different factions within the Sudanese People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) and has been a central figure in the ongoing civil war in South Sudan.