Ugandan special forces have deployed to Juba, South Sudan, amid escalating tensions between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Recent clashes have revived fears of political instability, prompting urgent measures. Both leaders have condemned violence, while international entities warn of significant regression and potential for war, stressing the need for peacekeeping efforts.
The Ugandan army chief has reported the deployment of special forces to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, amid rising tensions threatening the fragile peace between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. Recent clashes between forces loyal to the leaders in northeastern South Sudan have escalated concerns regarding political stability.
“As of 2 days ago, our Special Forces units entered Juba to secure it,” stated Ugandan army chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba via X. He emphasized that Uganda would ensure the protection of South Sudan as if it were their own territory. Uganda’s army spokesman, Felix Kulayigye, confirmed the troop deployment aimed at protecting the South Sudanese government.
Uganda initially deployed troops to South Sudan in 2013 during the onset of a civil war, later withdrawing in 2015 after a fragile power-sharing deal was established in 2018. However, this agreement is now under threat due to recent violent incidents, including an attack on a UN helicopter responding to a rescue mission, leading to fatalities among South Sudanese officers.
President Kiir has urged calm among citizens, emphasizing that the nation will not revert to war and asserting that his government will manage the current crisis. His allies have accused Machar’s forces of inciting unrest in cooperation with the White Army, an ethnic-focused militia. Machar’s office condemned the helicopter attack, labeling it “barbaric,” and reiterated that restoring peace is a priority.
International concern is rising, with warnings from the UN Commission on Human Rights indicating an “alarming regression” in South Sudan that could reverse years of progress. The International Crisis Group has highlighted the potential for rapid descent into full-scale war, urging the UN to prepare peacekeepers to protect civilians. Alan Boswell, the organization’s Horn of Africa director, has cautioned against the risks of ethnic massacres if the situation remains unaided.
The deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan underscores the growing instability in the region, fueled by recent violent clashes and political tensions. Both President Kiir and Vice President Machar are facing pressures that could challenge the fragile peace established in previous years. With international agencies expressing grave concern, the potential for further conflict remains high, necessitating immediate attention and intervention.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
