Uganda Strengthens Military Presence in Juba to Support Salva Kiir

Uganda has deployed Special Forces to Juba to secure the city amid rising tensions in South Sudan. Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba declared that any move against President Kiir would be viewed as an act of war against Uganda, marking a significant military intervention in support of the existing regime. This deployment could impact the balance of power and the ongoing conflict involving opposition factions.

Uganda has dispatched Special Forces units to Juba due to escalating political and security tensions in South Sudan, as disclosed by Army Chief Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba. He emphasized that any actions against President Salva Kiir would be treated as a declaration of war against Uganda, reinforcing Uganda’s strong allegiance to the South Sudanese leader.

Gen Muhoozi stated, “We, the UPDF, only recognize ONE President of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir. Any move against him is a declaration of war against Uganda!” His comments follow the deployment of troops two days prior to secure Juba amid rising unrest. The situation has intensified due to ongoing confrontations and the mobilization of militia groups in South Sudan, which heightens fears of a larger conflict.

This intervention aligns with Uganda’s historical military engagement in South Sudan, where troops were previously sent to stabilize the region during the 2013-2014 civil war. The current deployment aims to fortify President Kiir’s regime and signals Uganda’s commitment to maintaining his authority amidst strain on the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

The arrival of Ugandan Special Forces significantly alters the power dynamics within South Sudan, enhancing Kiir’s military capability and signaling to opposition factions that internal challenges to his leadership will elicit military responses. The SPLA-IO faction led by Riek Machar is now confronted with the added complexity of foreign military presence in Juba, which could thwart their ambitions to challenge Kiir’s governance.

This intervention may also provoke backlash from opposition groups and exacerbate tensions with other regional players, especially as it challenges South Sudan’s autonomy. Concurrently, President William Ruto of Kenya has been facilitating peace talks with President Kiir and Machar, advocating for dialogue to alleviate escalating conflicts.

The deployment of Ugandan troops to Juba is a strategic action aimed at supporting President Salva Kiir amid rising unrest in South Sudan. Gen Muhoozi’s declaration reinforces Uganda’s unwavering support for Kiir, while the current tensions and military maneuvering suggest a precarious balance of power within the region. The international response, including ongoing peace talks, will be critical in addressing the situation’s complexities.

Original Source: chimpreports.com