Uganda has deployed special forces to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, in response to increasing tensions threatening a fragile peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The Ugandan army chief confirmed the deployment while concerns rise over the potential for conflict amid recent violence. International observers warn of a dangerous regression in peace efforts, emphasizing the urgency for proactive measures against ethnic violence.
Ugandan special forces have been deployed to Juba, South Sudan’s capital, amid rising tensions threatening a fragile peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The Ugandan army chief announced the move on Tuesday, attributing the deployment to increased political instability in the region. This comes in the wake of recent clashes involving forces loyal to both leaders.
The Ugandan army chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, confirmed the deployment stating, “As of 2 days ago, our Special Forces units entered Juba to secure it.” He emphasized Uganda’s commitment to safeguarding South Sudan’s territory, as if it were their own. Army spokesman Felix Kulayigye also confirmed the troop presence aimed at protecting the government.
Historically, Uganda had initially sent troops to support Kiir at the start of South Sudan’s civil war in 2013 but withdrew officially in 2015. Despite a fragile power-sharing agreement reached in 2018 between Kiir and Machar, recent violence in Upper Nile State has jeopardized peace efforts. A significant escalation occurred following an attack on a UN helicopter during a failed rescue operation, which resulted in multiple fatalities among South Sudanese army ranks.
In response to the unrest, President Kiir reassured the public of his government’s ability to manage the crisis, stating, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war.” Meanwhile, accusations have surfaced among Kiir’s allies, blaming Machar’s forces and their ethnic group, the Nuer, for inciting violence.
Internationally, there is an increasing alarm regardingSouth Sudan’s deterioration with the UN Commission on Human Rights warning of a dangerous regression threatening past progress. The International Crisis Group has indicated a risk of South Sudan descending into a large-scale conflict. Efforts for peace continue as Machar’s office condemned the recent helicopter attack and emphasized a commitment to engaging stakeholders to curb violence.
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of special forces to Juba highlights the growing tensions in South Sudan and the fragility of its Peace Agreement between leaders Salva Kiir and Riek Machar. The situation, exacerbated by violent incidents and accusations of unrest, prompts international concern regarding the potential resurgence of civil war. Both leaders remain under pressure to navigate the crisis and restore stability in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
