Dr. Riek Machar has urged the UN and other bodies to intervene against Uganda’s military presence in South Sudan, citing threats to the 2018 peace agreement and violations of international law. Accusations include unauthorized troop deployments and airstrikes targeting civilians, raising concerns over the peace process and regional stability.
South Sudan’s First Vice-President, Dr. Riek Machar, has appealed to the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and IGAD for intervention regarding the military presence of Uganda in South Sudan. He expressed concerns that this deployment poses risks to the fragile 2018 peace agreement. Machar’s letter, dated March 23, was sent to key officials, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres and AU Commissioner Bankole Adeoye.
In his correspondence, Machar accused Uganda of breaching international agreements by unauthorized troop deployments in South Sudan. He emphasized that this act contravenes the Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS), which expressly requires the withdrawal of foreign forces. He specifically mentioned violations of Articles 2.1.5 and 2.1.7, along with a 2017 ceasefire agreement.
The letter pointed out that Uganda has conducted airstrikes in the Upper Nile and Jonglei regions, reportedly targeting civilians. Despite requests for comments, the Ugandan government has not responded. Machar cautioned that the ongoing situation might hinder South Sudan’s transition to democracy, thereby seeking action from the UN Security Council, AU, and IGAD.
Machar highlighted Uganda’s historical role as a key guarantor of peace, stating, “We expected President [Yoweri] Museveni to support its implementation, not undermine it.” Uganda initially intervened in South Sudan in 2014 under a bilateral agreement with a former regime; however, the current government never ratified this arrangement, making the troop presence unlawful under the 2018 peace framework.
The UN has enforced an arms embargo on South Sudan since 2018, raising inquiries regarding how Ugandan forces entered the country equipped with heavy weaponry. Recently, Uganda deployed special forces amidst worries of a potential return to civil conflict in South Sudan. Uganda’s military chief stated that the troops were intended to assist in “securing” Juba and “supporting” President Salva Kiir, amid escalating tensions between Kiir and Machar due to faltering power-sharing arrangements.
Dr. Riek Machar’s appeal highlights significant concerns regarding Uganda’s military presence in South Sudan and its implications for peace and stability. His call for intervention from international bodies underscores the potential threat to the 2018 peace agreement. The situation remains critical as it raises questions about the legality of foreign troop presence and the ongoing tensions in South Sudan’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
