The article discusses Uganda’s military involvement in South Sudan, highlighting governance issues and eroded trust stemming from troop deployments. It explores the historical context of the relationship and its current implications for sovereignty and stability in South Sudan, advocating for a withdrawal of foreign forces and a focus on self-determination. The narrative warns against Uganda becoming an aggressor rather than a stabilizing influence.
The uncertainty surrounding Ugandan troop deployment in South Sudan has revealed significant governance and transparency issues, undermining trust and raising the possibility of escalating conflict. This is the second major military involvement by Uganda within a decade, highlighting how President Yoweri Museveni supports President Kiir, ultimately to benefit financially at the expense of peace in the region. This relationship poses severe risks for both Uganda and South Sudan.
Relying on external military forces, particularly from Uganda—with which South Sudan shares unresolved border issues—signals to other nations that South Sudan’s army is ineffective. This fosters a perception of vulnerability, making South Sudan susceptible to foreign exploitation and external influence over its internal affairs. Such dependencies potentially jeopardize the country’s sovereignty.
Historically, the bond between Uganda and South Sudan was seen as positive, especially during South Sudan’s liberation wars, which drove many to seek refuge in Uganda. However, this alliance has significantly deteriorated since 2013 following Uganda’s military support for one side in the conflict, leading to human rights abuses and war crimes committed by Ugandan soldiers, straining the historical friendship between the two nations.
The perception has shifted among South Sudanese, with many now seeing Uganda as an ally of a corrupt and oppressive regime rather than of ordinary citizens. This estrangement arises from Uganda appearing to side with the ruling party instead of fostering peace for the marginalized populace.
The strategic deployments of Ugandan forces have created a worrying trend, correlating with conflicts between Kiir and Machar. This growing trend portrays Uganda as a partial actor in the South Sudanese conflict, raising tensions and enabling external interference from other regional powers instead of mediating peace.
The Uganda Peoples Defence Force (UPDF) was once held in high regard but now risks being viewed as mercenaries following these controversial deployments. If this perception persists, it could hinder UPDF’s international support and training efforts, weakening its position within the increasingly volatile regional context.
The international community must recognize Uganda’s involvement as detrimental to stability in South Sudan. Organizations such as the United Nations and African Union should call for the withdrawal of Ugandan forces and push for genuine peace efforts. South Sudanese citizens must also resist any external interference that threatens their sovereignty, reinforcing their own power to determine their future.
South Sudan cannot dismantle its military structure in favor of foreign troops. Instead of financially supporting Uganda’s military involvement, it should fund its own unified forces, focusing on self-determination and empowerment of its people. True liberation must come from within the nation.
While Ugandans generally view South Sudan positively, there is a call for Uganda to revise its foreign policy to avoid aggression. The legacy of Uganda’s leadership should not be one that dismantles the very nation it once aided in liberation.
Dr. Remember Miamingi, a South Sudanese governance and human rights expert, provides insights into these complexities. Contact him via email for further discussion.
The views expressed in opinion articles reflect the author’s opinions only, and the accuracy of stated claims lies with the author, not Radio Tamazuj.
The article underscores the complex relationship between Uganda and South Sudan, emphasizing the negative consequences of military involvement on South Sudan’s sovereignty and stability. It highlights the historical goodwill that is now marred by Uganda’s military interventions, presenting the need for both nations and the international community to seek genuine peace while rejecting external manipulation. Ultimately, South Sudan’s future hinges on self-reliance and internal healing rather than dependence on foreign military support.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
