Uganda has deployed special forces to South Sudan to secure Juba amid fears of a civil war prompted by rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. Uganda’s military leadership announced their commitment to support Kiir, while the UN urged for dialogue to restore peace. Recent clashes in South Sudan have raised alarms about the potential for a renewed conflict.
In response to escalating tensions in South Sudan, Uganda has deployed special forces to secure the capital, Juba. This military action comes amid concerns that the fragile power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar is collapsing, resulting in violent clashes. Uganda’s military chief confirmed the troop deployment, emphasizing their role in stabilizing the situation amidst fears of a civil war.
There has been a significant rise in confrontations as Kiir’s government arrested two ministers and several military leaders aligned with Machar. Recent combat in the northern town of Nasir has escalated, resulting in numerous fatalities, including dozens of soldiers and a general from the South Sudanese army.
In a series of statements, Ugandan military leader Muhoozi Kainerugaba declared the troops’ presence, stressing that Uganda recognizes Kiir as South Sudan’s legitimate president, warning that any threats against him would be perceived as acts of war. The Ugandan government has not disclosed the duration of this mission or the nature of any request for assistance from Kiir.
The UN has called for restraint among all parties involved and urged for dialogue to defuse tensions. As violence simmers, concerns grow over the potential influx of refugees into Uganda and the broader ramifications for regional stability. Uganda’s historical involvement in South Sudan’s conflicts reminds many of prior military interventions when civil war erupted in 2013 and again in 2016.
The deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan highlights the escalating tensions between South Sudan’s leadership, threatening to rekindle conflict that could lead to increased instability in the region. The Ugandan military’s actions reaffirm its support for President Kiir, while international organizations like the UN emphasize the need for dialogue to prevent further violence. The situation remains precarious as observers monitor the developments closely.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
