The UPDF has confirmed the deployment of troops in South Sudan to support President Kiir amid rising tensions with Riek Machar’s forces. The legality of the deployment under parliamentary authorization remains uncertain. The operation aims to enhance security following violent clashes that threaten the 2018 peace agreement. UPDF officials emphasize that the mission addresses mutual interests for both nations.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have confirmed the deployment of their special forces in South Sudan to assist President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s government. The deployment process lacks clarity, particularly as it has not received public authorization from Uganda’s parliament. Current tensions arise between Kiir’s loyal forces and those of First Vice President Riek Machar, leading to a recent attack by Machar’s loyal militias in Upper Nile State that resulted in multiple fatalities, including the death of a commander from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
In response to these violent outbreaks, the South Sudanese administration is intensifying its crackdown on allies of Machar, leading to the detainment of several senior officials, including the Petroleum Minister. These escalating issues amplify concerns regarding the stability of South Sudan’s fragile 2018 peace agreement that concluded a significant civil war.
During an exclusive interview, UPDF Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye confirmed the troop deployment aimed at addressing the increasing insecurity in South Sudan, asserting that it aligns with the interests of both Ugandan and South Sudanese citizens. Regarding the legal basis for the intervention, Kulayigye indicated that without a governmental agreement, such a deployment could qualify as an invasion.
He noted that the troops are already in South Sudan and emphasized that the continuation of the mission depends on security conditions. Though he refrained from disclosing the specific number of troops, Kulayigye asserted that the withdrawal timeline would be contingent on future developments. The announcement followed a statement from Uganda’s Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who mentioned on the social media platform X that the operation ‘Mlinzi wa Kimya’ has commenced to support the SSPDF.
SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang chose not to comment for this report, and attempts to reach South Sudan’s Information Minister, Michael Makuei, were unsuccessful. Historically, Uganda has played a crucial role in South Sudanese conflicts, previously intervening in 2013 to support Kiir’s government during earlier civil wars.
The UPDF’s recent deployment in South Sudan aims to bolster security for President Kiir’s administration amidst escalating tensions with rival forces. This operation raises questions about legal authorization and the implications for the 2018 peace agreement. As the situation develops, the UPDF will adapt their mission based on the emerging security landscape. Uganda’s significant historical involvement in South Sudan’s conflicts further contextualizes this recent military engagement.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
