The Ugandan Parliament has approved the deployment of the UPDF to South Sudan following a request from President Salva Kiir due to civil unrest. The deployment aims to stabilize security and is rooted in Uganda’s commitment to regional solidarity. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of this mission for both nations’ peace and security.
The Parliament of Uganda has approved the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in South Sudan in response to a request for urgent military support. During a parliamentary session on March 20, 2025, Hon. Jacob Oboth, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, presented the motion. The deployment aims to address civil unrest that erupted in Upper Nile State, prompting President Salva Kiir to seek assistance from President Yoweri Museveni.
The urgent request for support was made on March 10, 2025, as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation. Hon. Oboth noted that President Museveni’s decision was constitutionally mandated and based on Uganda’s commitment to regional solidarity and Pan-Africanism. He emphasized that the intervention was aligned with a spirit of brotherhood between the two nations.
Oboth further detailed the security implications of unrest in South Sudan, highlighting the potential negative impact on Uganda in various aspects, including economic and political. He stated that previous deployments of the UPDF have effectively stabilized security in the region and contributed to peace enforcement, which ultimately benefits both Uganda and the broader African community.
Supporting the motion, Hon. Gilbert Olanya remarked on the vital importance of the UPDF’s presence in South Sudan for maintaining peace and security in Northern Uganda, particularly for those conducting business across the border. He urged fellow lawmakers to lend their support to the deployment, highlighting its significance for regional stability.
The approval of the UPDF’s deployment in South Sudan reflects Uganda’s commitment to addressing regional security issues, ensuring peace, and fostering cooperative ties between nations. The defense forces’ intervention is expected to mitigate potential conflicts and promote stability that benefits not only Uganda but the entire region.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
