Uganda has sent special forces to Juba, South Sudan, to aid President Kiir amid tensions with his deputy, Riek Machar. This follows recent arrests of Machar’s allies and escalating security concerns, prompting the U.S. to withdraw non-emergency staff. The peace deal remains unimplemented, risking further conflict.
Uganda has deployed special forces to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, according to Uganda’s military chief, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba. This deployment aims to bolster security for President Salva Kiir amidst escalating tensions between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, raising concerns that the fragile peace agreement might collapse, potentially leading to renewed conflict.
The reasons for Uganda’s military presence remain unspecified, but Gen Kainerugaba emphasized that any action against Kiir would be viewed as a “declaration of war against Uganda.” He declared Uganda’s commitment to protecting South Sudan as if it were their own territory, disseminating this message on the social media platform X.
As these developments unfold, South Sudan’s government has yet to issue a formal response regarding the Ugandan troops. Meanwhile, the security situation has intensified, prompting the U.S. to evacuate all non-emergency personnel from South Sudan, citing growing security concerns.
Last week, two ministers and the deputy chief of the army, both allies of Riek Machar, were arrested by security forces, which an opposition spokesperson deemed a severe infringement on the existing peace agreement. Following these arrests, one minister has since been released.
These tensions followed clashes between government forces and the White Army militia in Upper Nile state. The White Army had supported Machar during the civil war that ignited in 2013 due to a power struggle with Kiir, resulting in significant casualties and dislocation in the country. Although a 2018 power-sharing deal quelled active fighting, critical aspects of the agreement such as a new constitution, elections, and military integration remain unfulfilled.
The situation in South Sudan is precarious as Uganda increases its military presence to support President Kiir amidst rising conflicts with Riek Machar. The U.S. evacuation of personnel underscores global concerns over security. Urgent attention is needed to address the stalled peace agreement to prevent any resurgence of violence after years of civil conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
