South Sudan Defends Ugandan Troop Deployment Under Historical Pact
South Sudan has justified the presence of Ugandan troops in Juba as part of an old military pact to combat threats like the LRA. Minister Michael Makuei Leuth confirmed this deployment, aimed at supporting President Kiir amid rising political tensions. Uganda’s military leaders have publicly backed Kiir, deeming opposition to him a declaration of war. Recent troop reinforcements demonstrate Uganda’s support, while regional stability remains a concern amid ongoing conflicts.
The South Sudan government has affirmed the presence of Ugandan troops in Juba, stating it aligns with a long-standing military agreement aimed at combating negative forces, including the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). Minister of Information Michael Makuei Leuth indicated that the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) under Operation ‘Mlinzi wa Kimya’ is a continuation of previous arrangements rather than a new intervention.
Makuei emphasized that the military pact, established during the time of the LRA conflict, remains active and is utilized as needed. He clarified that the UPDF units arriving in Juba are primarily support and technical units, tasked with aiding their counterparts in the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
Contrary to earlier denials regarding the UPDF’s presence, this deployment is significant in light of escalating political tensions within South Sudan. The situation has worsened due to clashes between government forces and the White Army, attacks on UN aerial assets, and the detention of prominent opposition leaders, including SPLA-IO Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam.
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, publicly expressed support for President Salva Kiir, asserting that any opposition to him would be perceived as a declaration of war against Uganda. He reinforced this sentiment on social media, declaring recognition only for Kiir’s leadership.
The ruling NRM Parliamentary Caucus in Uganda has endorsed the troop deployment, emphasizing its importance for restoring stability and averting further conflict escalation. Moreover, recent troop reinforcements and heavy artillery dispatched to South Sudan demonstrate Uganda’s commitment to supporting President Kiir.
The White Army has intensified its activities, recently capturing the strategic town of Nasir, which is crucial for supply routes. The South Sudanese army has escalated military actions, employing warplanes to target the airstrip in Nasir in an attempt to disrupt supply lines to the White Army. Meanwhile, comments from the UN and other regional entities regarding Uganda’s troop presence based on the anti-LRA pact are still awaited.
In summary, the Ugandan military presence in South Sudan is justified by an existing bilateral military pact aimed at regional security and stability. With rising tensions and conflict within South Sudan, Uganda’s involvement underscores its commitment to support President Salva Kiir against opposition forces. The international community’s response remains to be seen as the situation evolves.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
