Uganda has deployed special forces to Juba amidst rising tensions in South Sudan. The deployment aims to secure the fragile peace following renewed fighting between rival factions. Both Ugandan military officials have confirmed the mission, as the international community warns of a potential regression into full conflict.
Ugandan forces have been deployed to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, in response to escalating tensions within the country. The deployment, confirmed by Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba, aims to safeguard the fragile peace, which is threatened by recent clashes between rival factions in the northeastern region. Kainerugaba stated, “As of two days ago, our Special Forces units entered Juba to secure it. We shall protect the entire territory of South Sudan like it was our own.”
Army spokesman Felix Kulayigye has also affirmed the troop deployment, indicating that their mission is to support the South Sudanese government. He noted, “We had instructions to deploy, and we deployed the troops there.” South Sudan has faced prolonged violence and political instability, dating back to its civil war in 2013, wherein Uganda helped President Salva Kiir.
Although Ugandan troops formally withdrew in 2015, tensions remained unresolved. A peace agreement reached in 2018 between President Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar temporarily alleviated conflict; however, renewed fighting has emerged, particularly in the Upper Nile State. Kiir’s supporters attribute the violence to Machar’s faction and the White Army, a militia comprised of young fighters from Machar’s Nuer ethnic group.
The United Nations has expressed grave concern over South Sudan’s situation, labeling it as experiencing “an alarming regression” that jeopardizes previous peace efforts. Furthermore, the International Crisis Group has warned that South Sudan is “slipping rapidly toward full-blown war.”
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of special forces to South Sudan underscores the critical tensions that threaten the nation’s peace process. With historical ties and previous interventions, Uganda aims to stabilize the region amid ongoing violence. The international community remains watchful, given the alarming indications of a potential resurgence of conflict, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and security in South Sudan.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
