The Ugandan Parliament has approved the UPDF’s deployment to South Sudan, following unauthorized military action weeks earlier. This decision is a response to escalating conflict in South Sudan, marked by recent arrests of political leaders and military clashes. Minister Jacob Oboth emphasized that the deployment is both legal under Ugandan law and crucial for regional stability.
On Thursday, the Parliament of Uganda approved the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan following prior unauthorized military action. For weeks, the UPDF operated in South Sudan without parliamentary authorization, contrary to legal procedures. The renewed conflict and instability in South Sudan, compounded by rampant violations of the Revitalized Agreement on Resolution of the Conflict, necessitated this military intervention.
Recent tensions in South Sudan escalated with the arrest of key allies of Vice President Riek Machar, regarded as a serious breach of the peace agreement. Subsequently, clashes erupted between government forces and the White Army militia in Upper Nile state, which aligned with Machar in the past. This unrest has deepened the vulnerability of the region, triggering Uganda’s military response to bolster stability.
Minister of Defense Jacob Oboth Oboth presented the motion to Parliament, asserting that the UPDF’s deployment is grounded in existing defense cooperation arrangements between Uganda and South Sudan. He referenced the Uganda People’s Defense Forces Act, particularly Section 49, which outlines conditions under which troops may be deployed internationally.
Oboth emphasized that Uganda’s involvement is crucial for its security and that of the wider region, citing a potential crisis as South Sudanese President Salva Kiir sought urgent military assistance from Uganda. He reassured Parliament that this deployment reflects Uganda’s commitment to regional stability and brotherhood in Africa.
Historically, Uganda has intervened militarily in South Sudan and other nations to promote security. According to Minister Oboth, UPDF’s presence has previously contributed to improved stability and reduced conflict. Gilbert Oulanya, a lawmaker from Kilak South, voiced his support for the deployment, linking peace in South Sudan directly to peace in Uganda.
The Ugandan Parliament’s approval to deploy the UPDF in South Sudan underscores the urgent need for intervention to stabilize a region fraught with conflict. Minister Jacob Oboth’s assertions highlight the legal framework and strategic importance of such deployments, alluding to a shared commitment to regional security. The support from lawmakers reflects a consensus that peace in South Sudan is vital for Uganda’s own stability.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
