Uganda has sent elite forces to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, to support President Kiir’s government amidst rising tensions with his deputy, Riek Machar. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba confirmed the deployment aims to reinforce security in the city. The situation has escalated significantly, raising concerns over the stability of the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement, with broader international and regional responses being mobilized.
Uganda has deployed elite special forces, known as the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), to the South Sudanese capital, Juba, to assist in securing the city and bolstering President Salva Kiir’s government. This announcement was made by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, via a post on social media, revealing the operation’s name as “Mlinzi wa Kimya” (Silent Guardian).
General Kainerugaba asserted that any action against President Kiir would be viewed as an act of war against Uganda, emphasizing Uganda’s commitment to protecting South Sudan as if it were their own territory. This declaration highlights Uganda’s intention to strongly support Kiir’s administration amid rising tensions.
The South Sudanese government has not yet responded officially to the deployment. The political climate has become increasingly volatile due to escalating disputes between President Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, threatening the fragile peace established by their 2018 agreement.
The unrest began last week when security forces arrested several figures allied with Machar, igniting criticisms from the opposition accusing the government of breaching the peace accord. Although one minister has been released, violent clashes have ensued in the Upper Nile State between government bodies and a militia known as the White Army.
Tensions escalated further when a UN helicopter evacuating South Sudanese soldiers was attacked, leading to multiple casualties, including a UN crew member. This deterioration in security has prompted concern from regional actors, leading the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to convene a virtual summit for dialogue and conflict de-escalation.
In response to the escalating violence, the United States has ordered the evacuation of all non-emergency diplomatic personnel from South Sudan, indicating serious concerns about the safety of personnel and the increasing presence of weapons among civilians.
South Sudan, the youngest nation globally, gained independence in 2011 but has been mired in conflict since 2013, following a power struggle between Kiir and Machar. Although a 2018 peace agreement brought an end to major hostilities, critical reforms remain unfulfilled, perpetuating underlying tensions.
In conclusion, Uganda’s deployment of special forces to Juba signifies a renewed commitment to supporting the South Sudanese government amid internal political crises. As tensions rise between Kiir and Machar, the fragile peace that has existed since the 2018 agreement is under threat, prompting urgent responses from both regional powers and international diplomatic channels. The situation remains precarious and requires careful monitoring and mediation efforts to prevent further escalation of violence and instability.
Original Source: softpower.ug
