Uganda confirmed the deployment of special forces to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, amid rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar. The deployment follows recent ministerial arrests and violent clashes that threaten a fragile peace agreement. Military Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba emphasized Uganda’s support for Kiir, warning against any moves perceived as threats to his leadership.
On Tuesday, Uganda’s military chief announced the deployment of special forces in the South Sudanese capital of Juba to ensure security amid escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar. Recent unrest, including the detention of ministers and high-ranking military officials aligned with Machar, has raised concerns about a potential return to civil war in the country, which has struggled since its independence.
The political situation in South Sudan has deteriorated, particularly following the arrest of officials and violent clashes near the northern town of Nasir, threatening the fragile 2018 peace agreement that ended a devastating civil war. This conflict claimed nearly 400,000 lives and left a significant impact on the nation’s stability and governance, highlighting ongoing fears of renewed violence.
Military Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba stated, “As of two days ago, our Special Forces units entered Juba to secure it.” He further remarked, “We the UPDF [Ugandan military], only recognize one president of South Sudan, HE Salva Kiir… any move against him is a declaration of war against Uganda.” This statement reflects Uganda’s commitment to supporting Kiir’s administration.
Historically, Uganda has intervened in South Sudan, deploying troops during previous conflicts in 2013 and 2016 to assist Kiir’s forces against Machar’s faction; however, these troops were withdrawn after significant military actions. Uganda’s concerns about regional stability are compounded by the possibility of an influx of refugees should the situation escalate.
Kainerugaba did not clarify whether the recently deployed forces were at the behest of Kiir’s government or how long they are expected to remain in South Sudan, leaving some uncertainty regarding the nature and duration of this intervention.
In conclusion, Uganda’s deployment of special forces in Juba represents a significant military action in response to rising tensions between the South Sudanese leadership. With the backdrop of past conflicts and existing political uncertainty, this move highlights Uganda’s strategic interest in maintaining stability in its neighbor. Continued monitoring of the situation is essential as it develops, particularly regarding humanitarian implications and regional security.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
