Dr. Riek Machar Appeals for UN Intervention Against Ugandan Forces in South Sudan
Dr. Riek Machar, South Sudan’s First Vice-President, has urged the UN, AU, and IGAD to intervene regarding the Ugandan military presence in South Sudan, citing threats to the 2018 peace agreement. He accused Uganda of deploying troops without approval and conducting airstrikes on civilians, warning of a potential derailment of South Sudan’s democratic transition.
Dr. Riek Machar, South Sudan’s First Vice-President, has formally requested intervention from the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) concerning the presence of Ugandan military forces in South Sudan. He has expressed concerns that this military presence may jeopardize the fragile peace accord established in 2018.
In a letter dated March 23, addressed to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, AU Commissioner Bankole Adeoye, and IGAD Chair Ismail Omar Guelleh, Dr. Machar contended that Uganda is breaching international agreements by deploying troops without consent from South Sudan’s transitional government. He emphasized that this presence contradicts the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, which mandates the withdrawal of foreign soldiers.
Moreover, Dr. Machar highlighted that Uganda’s actions include alleged airstrikes in Upper Nile and Jonglei states that targeted civilians. He asserted that the deployment of Ugandan troops could derail South Sudan’s transition towards democracy and urged mediation from international bodies.
“Uganda was a key guarantor of the peace agreement,” Dr. Machar stated, criticizing President Yoweri Museveni for undermining the peace process he is expected to support. He pointed out that Uganda’s military presence is unlawful, as the current administration has not ratified the agreement that initially allowed their troop deployment.
The UN has imposed an arms embargo on South Sudan since 2018, raising concerns about the entry of Ugandan forces equipped with heavy weaponry. Recently, Uganda dispatched special forces amid fears that South Sudan might regress into civil conflict. Uganda’s military leadership has defended the deployment, asserting it serves to secure Juba and bolster President Salva Kiir amidst escalating tensions between him and Mr. Machar.
In summary, Dr. Riek Machar has articulated significant concerns regarding Uganda’s military involvement in South Sudan. He highlights potential violations of the 2018 peace agreement, the adverse impact on the country’s democratic transition, and the need for international intervention. The situation remains delicate, necessitating careful diplomatic engagement to preserve peace in the region.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
