UPDF Troops Deployed to South Sudan Amid Rising Tensions

The UPDF has deployed special forces to South Sudan to support President Salva Kiir amid escalating tensions with Riek Machar’s faction. The lack of parliamentary authorization raises questions about the legal basis of the intervention, which is intended to address growing security threats. The action follows a recent upsurge in violence and detentions of officials associated with Machar, signaling further instability in the region.

The spokesperson for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed the deployment of special forces in South Sudan to bolster President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s government. However, the specifics of the deployment remain ambiguous, as there has been no official authorization from Uganda’s parliament. Recently, tensions have escalated between Kiir’s forces and those loyal to First Vice President Riek Machar, leader of the SPLM/A-IO.

Violent incidents have intensified, with militias loyal to Machar reportedly seizing the town of Nasir, leading to numerous casualties, including a commander of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). In response, Kiir’s administration has intensified its crackdown on Machar’s supporters, resulting in the detention of several senior officials, including the Petroleum Minister.

These developments have reignited concerns regarding the fragile 2018 peace agreement, which concluded a devastating five-year civil war. In an interview with Radio Tamazuj, UPDF Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye stated that the aim of their mission is to support the South Sudanese government due to increasing security threats. He clarified the necessity of a legal framework for intervention, asserting that without an agreement, involvement could be viewed as an invasion.

Brig. Gen. Kulayigye confirmed that UPDF forces are already operational in South Sudan, stating the mission would continue as long as necessary based on security conditions, and refrained from disclosing troop numbers. This acknowledgment follows a statement from Uganda’s Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, indicating that UPDF commandos have commenced operations in Juba under the mission titled ‘Mlinzi wa Kimya.’

Contacted for comments, SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang declined to make statements regarding the situation; attempts to reach South Sudan’s Information Minister were unsuccessful. Uganda has a history of involvement in South Sudan’s conflicts, notably intervening in 2013 to support Kiir amidst civil unrest.

The deployment of UPDF forces in South Sudan highlights the ongoing tensions between government factions and raises questions regarding the humanitarian implications and the legal framework governing such interventions. The fragile nature of the 2018 peace agreement remains a concern as the situation develops, with international attention needed to monitor the long-term impacts of this military involvement. Further clarity from governmental authorities in both Uganda and South Sudan is essential.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org