Uganda Deploys Troops in Response to Crisis in South Sudan

Uganda has deployed special forces to South Sudan to secure Juba amidst fears of civil war due to escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The unfolding situation raises concerns of renewed conflict and regional instability, prompting calls for dialogue from the United Nations.

Amid rising tensions in South Sudan, Uganda has deployed special forces to Juba in response to fears of an impending civil war. The military chief of Uganda confirmed the troops’ arrival to help secure the capital as clashes escalate due to the unraveling power-sharing agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar.

Ugandan military personnel entered Juba to directly support Kiir’s administration. Muhoozi Kainerugaba stated that the Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF) recognizes Kiir as the legitimate President of South Sudan, warning that any attack against him would be viewed as a declaration of war on Uganda. The extent and duration of the deployment remain unspecified.

Recently, violence has intensified in South Sudan, particularly with the detention of ministers and military officials linked to Machar by Kiir’s government. Significant casualties were reported in Nasir, where fighting broke out between the South Sudanese army and the militia. Experts caution that renewed conflict appears increasingly likely despite Kiir’s stance on maintaining peace.

The United Nations has called for immediate dialogue to ease tensions and prevent further violence following the recent clashes. The deployment of Ugandan forces recalls Uganda’s previous interventions during South Sudan’s civil war, indicating concerns over regional stability and the potential influx of refugees should conflict worsen.

In addition to South Sudan, Uganda has been vigilant about regional threats, having recently engaged troops in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to manage militant activities.

The deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan highlights the escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, raising concerns about a possible return to civil war. Uganda’s military presence aims to stabilize Juba amid fears of violence spilling over into regional instability. The international community, including the United Nations, urges immediate dialogue to prevent further escalations, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in restoring peace.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com