Uganda Deploys Special Forces to Secure South Sudan Amid Tensions

Uganda has sent special forces to South Sudan to secure the capital, Juba, amid rising tensions and clashes. This deployment follows a history of military involvement in South Sudan and aims to stabilize the region by supporting President Salva Kiir against opposition forces. The Ugandan military emphasizes its commitment to Kiir and the broader implications of maintaining regional stability.

Uganda has deployed special military forces to South Sudan amid rising tensions, particularly following clashes in the Upper Nile State between the White Army and government forces, as well as unrest in the capital, Juba. This swift action aims to stabilize the region and secure Juba from anti-government factions, which have exacerbated political and ethnic divisions that have persisted since South Sudan’s independence in 2011.

The civil war in South Sudan from 2013 to 2018 resulted in over 400,000 fatalities. A peace agreement was signed in 2018 between President Salva Kiir and his rival, Machar, although its implementation remains incomplete. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Special Military Chief of Uganda, confirmed the arrival of Ugandan forces, stating, “As of two days ago, our Special Forces units entered Juba to secure it.” He underscored Uganda’s commitment to President Kiir, warning that opposition to him equates to an act of war against Uganda.

Historically, Uganda has intervened in South Sudan during periods of conflict, having previously sent troops in 2013 and again in 2016 to support the government. Such interventions are often framed within the context of regional stability and economic potential, given South Sudan’s wealth in resources like oil and minerals. The Ugandan government aims to foster an environment that discourages mass migration caused by conflict, in contrast to external powers that have destabilized other regions.

Although some South Sudanese ministers have disputed reports of Ugandan troop deployment, visual evidence and coverage from Ugandan media lend credibility to Uganda’s military engagement. With events evolving rapidly in South Sudan, the situation remains fluid and the full implications of Uganda’s involvement are yet to be understood.

In summary, Uganda’s recent military actions in South Sudan reflect a proactive stance aimed at stabilizing the capital and supporting President Salva Kiir amidst ongoing ethnic and political strife. While historical precedents exist for such interventions, the current deployment underscores the critical need for security to foster economic development and prevent further regional instability. As the situation evolves, the potential for economic cooperation between Uganda and South Sudan hangs in the balance.

Original Source: moderntokyotimes.com