Uganda Deploys Forces to South Sudan to Support Government Amid Growing Tensions
Uganda has deployed UPDF commandos to Juba, South Sudan, to support President Kiir amidst rising tensions with Riek Machar. General Kainerugaba affirmed Uganda’s commitment to defending Kiir’s government. The situation remains delicate as recent arrests and violent clashes threaten the fragile peace established in 2018, drawing regional and international concern and responses.
Uganda has dispatched elite special forces, known as the UPDF commandos, to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, to bolster the security of the city and assist President Salva Kiir’s administration. This deployment was disclosed by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations. The military operation, titled ‘Mlinzi wa Kimya’ (Silent Guardian), aims to support the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces amidst rising tensions in the region.
General Kainerugaba made a strong statement regarding Uganda’s intentions, asserting that any actions aimed at undermining President Kiir would be interpreted as a declaration of war against Uganda. He emphasized Uganda’s readiness to safeguard South Sudanese territory as if it were its own, thereby highlighting the commitment to maintaining Kiir’s government during this turbulent period.
Currently, the South Sudanese administration has not released an official comment regarding the UPDF deployment. The situation has grown increasingly precarious, particularly due to escalating hostilities between President Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, which pose threats to the tenuous peace established by a 2018 agreement.
The recent political volatility was underscored by the arrest of two ministers and the deputy chief of the army, both allies of Machar, which the opposition deemed a severe breach of the peace agreement. Clashes have subsequently erupted in the Upper Nile State between government forces and a militia known as the White Army, intensifying the unrest.
In light of the deteriorating security conditions, regional and international stakeholders have expressed deep concern. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) plans to convene an extraordinary virtual summit on March 12, 2025, to deliberate on the crisis in South Sudan, reaffirming their commitment to promoting peace and dialogue. Concurrently, the United States has initiated the evacuation of non-emergency diplomatic personnel from South Sudan, citing rising violence and the potential for civilian armament.
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has a troubled history, having gained independence from Sudan in 2011 only to devolve into civil war in 2013 due to a power struggle between Kiir and Machar. This conflict resulted in over 400,000 deaths, and despite a peace agreement in 2018 that ceased major hostilities, significant provisions remain unfulfilled, exacerbating the prevailing tensions between various factions.
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of elite forces to South Sudan reflects its commitment to supporting President Kiir’s government amidst escalating political tensions and unrest. The unrest has been fueled by recent arrests and violent clashes, prompting regional and international responses to ensure stability. The fragile peace established after years of conflict remains at risk as both local and international actors seek to navigate this complex crisis.
Original Source: softpower.ug
