General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defense Forces of the UPDF, announced the deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan to protect President Salva Kiir and ensure the security of Juba. He declared that any threats against Kiir would be seen as declarations of war against Uganda. Kainerugaba’s controversial history of statements has often resulted in diplomatic friction with neighboring countries.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defense Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), announced via his social media account that Ugandan troops have been deployed to South Sudan to protect President Salva Kiir and maintain security in Juba. He emphasized the UPDF’s recognition of Kiir as the sole president, asserting that any threat against him would be viewed as an act of war against Uganda.
General Kainerugaba stated, “We the UPDF, only recognize ONE President of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir, he is our ‘Afande’ even in UPDF because he is the younger brother of Mzee [Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni].” He further declared that the UPDF will treat South Sudan as its own territory, proclaiming, “We shall protect the entire territory of South Sudan like it was our own. That is the will of the Commander-in-Chief!”
The General has a history of controversial statements that have caused diplomatic tensions with neighboring countries. Previously, he warned mercenaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo of military action, which prompted a formal response from the DRC, demanding clarification from Uganda on this aggressive rhetoric.
Sudan also reacted to a separate threat made by General Kainerugaba regarding seizing Khartoum, whereby they issued a statement condemnation of his remarks as reckless and a violation of international norms and laws.
Prior threats made by General Kainerugaba included a declaration to invade Kenya, which resulted in Uganda’s President Museveni issuing an apology. The General’s declarations contribute to a long-standing military presence of the UPDF in South Sudan, particularly during the past conflicts that began in 2013 when the UPDF helped safeguard Juba International Airport and later engaged in combat duties.
The involvement of Ugandan forces in South Sudan has been contentious, with accusations of military excesses, such as using cluster bombs during engagements.
General Kainerugaba’s statements regarding the UPDF deployment to South Sudan signify a complex interplay of military allegiance and regional diplomacy. His remarks affirm Uganda’s commitment to supporting President Kiir while simultaneously inviting scrutiny due to their provocative nature. Past threats and controversial postings illustrate the General’s contentious role in shaping Uganda’s military and diplomatic relations in the region. The implications of such declarations highlight the need for careful diplomatic dialogue among East African nations.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
