Uganda Deploys Special Forces in Response to South Sudan Tensions

Uganda has deployed special forces in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, to maintain security amid heightened tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. The current political climate follows the detention of ministers and military officials, raising concerns about the potential for renewed civil war and regional instability that could lead to a refugee crisis.

Uganda has announced the deployment of special forces in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, amidst escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. This decision follows the recent detention of multiple ministers and military officials associated with Machar, actions that jeopardize the fragile peace established by a 2018 agreement concluding a prolonged civil conflict.

Military Chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, confirmed the deployment via social media, stating that the Ugandan forces are in Juba “to secure it.” He emphasized, “We the UPDF (Ugandan military), only recognise one President of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir … any move against him is a declaration of war against Uganda.” This reflects Uganda’s unwavering support for Kiir amidst the looming threat of renewed violence.

Historical context reveals that Uganda previously sent troops to Juba both in 2013 and 2016 following prior outbreaks of violence, only to withdraw eventually. This time, fears of a significant escalation in South Sudan could trigger a refugee crisis and create instability in Uganda itself. Kainerugaba did not clarify if the deployment results from a formal request from Kiir or how long the troops will remain in South Sudan.

The deployment of Ugandan special forces in South Sudan’s Juba underscores ongoing tensions and fears of renewed civil conflict. With the fragile peace established in 2018 at risk, Uganda’s military intervention aims to support President Salva Kiir’s government against internal threats. Historical precedents and the potential for regional instability due to refugee inflows highlight the critical nature of the situation.

Original Source: theprint.in