Uganda has deployed special forces in Juba, South Sudan, to secure the city amid rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Recent arrests of government officials have escalated fears of a return to civil war, prompting this military action. Uganda’s military chief emphasized the importance of supporting Kiir to maintain stability in the region.
In response to escalating tensions between South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, Uganda’s military chief announced the deployment of special forces in Juba. This development raises concerns about the potential resurgence of civil conflict in South Sudan, particularly following the arrest of ministers and military officials aligned with Machar.
Recent arrests, including two ministers, have heightened fears surrounding the fragile peace established by a 2018 agreement that concluded a devastating five-year civil war. The conflict resulted in nearly 400,000 deaths and significant destabilization in the region. Uganda speculates that ongoing tensions could unsettle the peace.
Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, confirmed the deployment, citing the need to secure Juba amid rising unrest. He emphasized Uganda’s allegiance to Kiir, stating that any opposition to him would be viewed as an act of war against Uganda. Previous Ugandan troop deployments in Juba occurred during the civil war periods of 2013 and 2016 but were later withdrawn.
Uganda’s strategic interest lies in preventing a full-scale conflict in South Sudan, which could lead to a refugee crisis and instability along its border. Kainerugaba did not specify if this escalation of forces was requested by the South Sudanese government or the intended duration of the deployment.
The situation remains fluid as South Sudan grapples with its political tensions, impacting peace stability in the region.
Uganda’s deployment of special forces in South Sudan’s capital Juba aims to stabilize a tense political environment marked by conflicts between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. This intervention reflects Uganda’s concerns regarding regional stability and the potential repercussions of renewed civil war. With historical troop deployments during previous conflicts, the situation in South Sudan continues to be precarious, affecting broader regional dynamics.
Original Source: theprint.in
