Uganda has deployed troops to South Sudan to support President Kiir’s government amidst rising fears of civil war fueled by tensions with Riek Machar. The U.S. has ordered personnel withdrawal as violence escalates, emphasizing the fragile political landscape. Both leaders face pressure to implement peace agreements and prepare for delayed elections in 2026.
Uganda has dispatched an unspecified number of troops to South Sudan to reinforce the government of President Salva Kiir amidst fears of a looming civil war. Major General Felix Kulayigye stated that Ugandan special forces are in Juba to support the South Sudanese government against potential rebel actions, clarifying that their presence is not peacekeeping but a direct intervention.
This military action marks Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s role as a guarantor for the fragile peace process between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar. The deployment reflects increasing tensions in South Sudan, a country struggling with consistent political upheaval and violence since its independence in 2011.
In response to the escalating conflict, the U.S. has ordered the departure of nonemergency personnel from Juba. The United Nations has highlighted concerns regarding the potential setbacks of stability in South Sudan, warning that renewed violence could reverse years of progress.
Recent hostilities in the northern region of the country involve government forces and the White Army rebel militia, believed to be aligned with Machar. Tensions have intensified following a violent incident involving a U.N. helicopter, resulting in casualties and arrests of army officials loyal to Machar, raising alarms over the political stability of the government.
The ongoing rivalry between Kiir and Machar contributes to the fragile peace; earlier this year, Kiir’s actions against Machar’s supporters heightened fears of a return to violence. He condemned recent tensions, assuring that his administration would navigate the crisis while adhering to the peace agreement established.
The initial civil war in South Sudan erupted in 2013 due to conflicts between Kiir and Machar, resulting in a protracted struggle with significant casualties. While a peace deal in 2018 enabled Machar to return as vice president, underlying issues persist, complicating efforts for sustainable governance.
Pressure from international entities urges both leaders to advance the peace process and prepare for elections, having repeatedly delayed necessary reforms, including unifying the military command. New presidential elections are tentatively set for 2026, but stability remains uncertain due to ongoing political maneuvering.
The recent deployment of Ugandan special forces to South Sudan underscores the region’s escalating tensions and risks of civil conflict. With the ongoing political rivalry between President Kiir and Riek Machar creating instability, international pressure mounts for both leaders to adhere to the 2018 peace agreement and expedite reforms. The historical context of past conflicts and the current situation highlight the need for urgent resolution to achieve lasting peace.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
