UPDF Deploys to South Sudan to Protect President Salva Kiir, Says Army Chief
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba of the UPDF announced troops deployed to secure Juba and protect President Salva Kiir in South Sudan, declaring that any threat to Kiir would be considered an act of war against Uganda. His controversial statements have previously caused diplomatic tensions, including reactions from Sudan and the DRC.
On Tuesday, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defense Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, announced the deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan. His intention is to aid President Salva Kiir and safeguard the capital city, Juba. He emphasized that the UPDF formally recognizes Salva Kiir as the legitimate president, asserting that any threat against him would be regarded as a declaration of war against Uganda.
General Kainerugaba proclaimed on his X account that the UPDF will protect South Sudan as if it were Ugandan territory, reaffirming the commitment of his forces. Notably, he reported that UPDF Special Forces units entered Juba two days prior to his announcement. His statements, greeted with international scrutiny, reflect his controversial reputation, often embroiled in diplomatic tensions due to provocative social media posts.
Past incidents include a threatening statement aimed at mercenaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where he warned of military actions starting January 2, 2025. This prompted the DRC to summon Uganda’s Acting Chargé d’Affaires in Kinshasa for clarification on Uganda’s stance. Similarly, Sudan condemned Kainerugaba’s earlier comments regarding Khartoum, calling for an apology and denouncing them as reckless and irresponsible, citing threats to regional stability and international relations.
General Kainerugaba has previously made incendiary statements about invading Kenya and has a history with South Sudan dating back to 2013 when the UPDF intervened in the South Sudanese conflict. At that time, the UPDF was tasked with protecting Juba International Airport and facilitating evacuations but later expanded its mission to include combatting rebel forces.
In summary, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s recent proclamation regarding UPDF deployment to South Sudan underscores a significant military and diplomatic development. His controversial social media presence continues to generate regional tension, viewed as both a commitment to allyship and a potential source of conflict. The international community’s responses highlight the delicate balance of military engagement and diplomatic relations in the region.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
