Uganda Deploys Troops in South Sudan Amid Civil War Fears

Uganda has sent special forces to South Sudan amid fears of civil war between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. Rising tensions have led to clashes following a failed power-sharing deal, prompting Uganda’s military to intervene in Juba to secure the capital. The United Nations calls for urgent dialogue to de-escalate the situation and prevent violence.

Uganda has deployed special forces to South Sudan amid escalating tensions that threaten to spiral into civil conflict. This decision was announced by Kampala’s military chief, who expressed that the troops are there to secure Juba, the capital of South Sudan, due to heightened clashes between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, stemming from a collapse in their power-sharing agreement.

Clashes have arisen in South Sudan, as concerns grow over the potential rekindling of civil war. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the military leader, confirmed on social media that Ugandan Special Forces arrived in Juba to maintain order. He emphasized Uganda’s support for President Kiir, warning that any attack against him would be regarded as an act of war against Uganda.

The duration of the Ugandan troop presence in Juba remains unspecified, and it is unclear if this deployment followed a request from President Kiir’s government. Recent days have seen sporadic fighting and escalating tension as Kiir’s government has arrested members of Machar’s coalition, raising fears of an impending conflict.

Violence has flared up with reports of deaths among soldiers and military officials linked to Machar’s allegiance. Despite Kiir’s declaration that he will not allow a return to war, analysts caution that the risk of renewed violence remains high. The United Nations has called on all parties to halt violence, urging leaders to engage in dialogue to restore stability.

This latest deployment reflects prior Ugandan military interventions during South Sudan’s previous civil wars, including reinforcements sent to Juba in 2013 and later in 2016. Given the potential for renewed conflict, Uganda is concerned about the implications of a refugee crisis and increased instability in the region, particularly following its recent military activities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to counter rebel factions supported by Rwanda.

The deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan signifies serious concerns regarding escalating tensions between political leaders and the risk of civil war. Uganda’s military support for President Kiir aims to stabilize the situation in Juba. However, the recurring cycles of violence underscore the need for immediate dialogue to avoid broader regional instability and humanitarian crises.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com