Uganda has deployed UPDF commandos to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, to support President Salva Kiir amid escalating tensions with Deputy Riek Machar. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba confirmed the operation, warning against threats to Kiir’s government. The situation has drawn international concern, leading to U.S. evacuations and an IGAD summit addressing the ongoing crisis amid the backdrop of unfulfilled peace agreement provisions.
Uganda has deployed special elite forces, known as UPDF commandos, to the South Sudan capital, Juba, to bolster President Salva Kiir’s government. This action, confirmed by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, is part of Operation ‘Mlinzi wa Kimya’ (Silent Guardian). In a declaration on the social media platform X, he stated that the UPDF’s mission aims to support the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) amidst a current crisis.
Gen. Kainerugaba emphasized Uganda’s commitment to defending President Kiir’s administration, declaring that any threats against Kiir would be viewed as a declaration of war against Uganda. He proclaimed, “We shall protect the entire territory of South Sudan like it was our own,” ensuring steadfast support for the South Sudanese government.
The South Sudan government has not formally addressed the deployment of UPDF forces, but tensions have escalated between President Kiir and Deputy Riek Machar. After the arrest last week of two ministers and the deputy army chief—aligned with Machar—concerns over the stability of their delicate 2018 peace agreement have heightened significantly.
Renewed violence was marked by clashes in the Upper Nile State involving government forces against the militia known as the White Army. These developments follow the attempted evacuation of SSPDF soldiers by a UN helicopter, which was shot at, resulting in several fatalities.
The worsening security situation in South Sudan has prompted both regional and international bodies to respond. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) announced an upcoming virtual summit to address the crisis. IGAD reiterated its dedication to promoting dialogues and securing a peaceful resolution for the nation. Concurrently, the United States has initiated the evacuation of non-emergency diplomatic staff due to escalating violence and the spread of weapons among civilians.
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, declared independence from Sudan in 2011 but soon descended into civil conflict in 2013, triggered by a power struggle between Kiir and Machar. Despite the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement which quelled major hostilities, core aspects such as the establishment of a unified army and the enactment of a new constitution are still pending, contributing to ongoing tensions within the country.
The deployment of Ugandan forces to South Sudan is a crucial component in supporting President Kiir amidst rising tensions with his deputy, Riek Machar. This situation highlights the fragile nature of peace in South Sudan, exacerbated by unaddressed provisions from the 2018 peace agreement. Regional and international responses, including the evacuation of U.S. diplomatic staff, underscore the urgency to stabilize the region. The evolving political landscape remains precarious as each side grapples with the implications of their actions.
Original Source: softpower.ug
