Parliament Endorses Deployment of UPDF in South Sudan Amidst Civil Unrest
The Ugandan Parliament has approved the deployment of the UPDF in South Sudan, responding to recent civil unrest. This action was motivated by a request for assistance from South Sudan’s President and reflects Uganda’s commitment to regional stability and security. Lawmakers emphasized the necessity of this deployment for mutual peace and economic benefits.
The Parliament of Uganda has endorsed the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan. This decision was presented by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth, during a parliamentary session chaired by Speaker Anita Among on March 20, 2025.
Minister Oboth indicated that the deployment follows recent civil unrest in South Sudan’s Upper Nile State, which began in early March. In response, South Sudan President Salva Kiir urgently sought military assistance from Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on March 10, 2025, aiming to prevent a potential crisis, as stated in the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation.
In line with constitutional mandates, President Museveni authorized the UPDF’s deployment for a peace enforcement mission. Oboth further emphasized that this decision was rooted in Uganda’s ideals of patriotism, nationalism, and Pan-Africanism, fostering a spirit of solidarity and shared historical ties between the nations.
Oboth underscored that the unstable security landscape in South Sudan poses significant negative ramifications for Uganda in socio-economic and political domains. He expressed that the UPDF’s historical involvement has been pivotal in stabilizing security and fostering peace, which ultimately surpasses national interests, benefiting the entire region and continent.
Hon. Gilbert Olanya (FDC, Kilak South County) supported the motion, advocating for the UPDF’s deployment as essential for ensuring peace for both Northern Uganda and the business interests within South Sudan. He called on his fellow lawmakers to rally behind the initiative, emphasizing its importance for regional stability.
The Ugandan Parliament’s approval for the UPDF’s deployment in South Sudan reflects a collaborative effort to address ongoing security concerns in the region. This decision not only aims to stabilize South Sudan but also to safeguard the interests and security of Uganda, reinforcing Uganda’s commitment to regional solidarity and peace enforcement.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
