Uganda Sends Special Forces to Support South Sudan Amid Rising Tensions

Uganda has deployed special forces to South Sudan to support President Salva Kiir’s government amidst fears of civil war. This move reflects increasing tensions from conflict involving rebel groups and underscores the longstanding rivalry between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar. The situation calls for urgent reforms and upcoming elections, further pressured by international stakeholders.

Uganda has recently dispatched an undisclosed number of troops to South Sudan to bolster President Salva Kiir’s fragile government as tensions rise amidst fears of a potential civil war. The special forces have been deployed to Juba, the nation’s capital, to counter possible rebel incursions. Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, spokesperson for the Ugandan military, emphasized that their mission is not for peacekeeping purposes.

The deployment reflects Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s role as a guarantor of the ongoing peace process, which aims to maintain unity between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar. Historically, Museveni has intervened in the South Sudan conflict to preserve Kiir’s hold on power. This troop deployment highlights the escalating tensions within South Sudan, a nation marred by instability since its independence in 2011.

In light of these developments, the United States has issued an order for nonemergency government personnel to evacuate Juba. Simultaneously, the United Nations has expressed concern over a “regression that could erase years of hard-won progress” in the country. The current unrest and potential civil unrest stem from recent conflict in northern South Sudan between government forces and a rebel group called the White Army, believed to support Machar.

Last week, violence surged when a U.N. helicopter was attacked while attempting to evacuate government troops from Nasir, resulting in casualties, including a South Sudanese general. In addition, after the White Army captured the military garrison in Nasir, government troops encircled Machar’s residence in Juba and detained several of his allies, including Deputy Army Chief Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam.

Tensions were exacerbated earlier this year when Kiir dismissed officials aligned with Machar, prompting accusations from Machar regarding violations of their peace agreement. Kiir assured the public that his administration would manage the crisis effectively, expressing a commitment to peace amid the growing discord.

The civil war that erupted in late 2013 was fueled by a power struggle between Kiir and Machar, leading to significant ethnic violence and the loss of over 400,000 lives. While a peace agreement was reached in 2018, which saw Machar return to power as first vice president, rivalry and mistrust continue to hinder stability in South Sudan. Both leaders face international pressure to expedite the implementation of the peace deal and move toward scheduled elections in 2026, amidst an ongoing call for governmental reforms.

The deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan is a significant response to rising tensions and fears of civil conflict as the country’s leadership struggles to maintain stability. The historical rivalry between President Kiir and Deputy Machar continues to challenge the fragile peace established in 2018. Both leaders are under increasing pressure to implement reforms and prepare for elections while addressing the imminent threat of renewed violence.

Original Source: www.newsday.com