South Sudan Confirms UPDF Deployment Amid Security Concerns
South Sudan has confirmed the presence of Ugandan military forces, reversing previous denials. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth attributed this deployment to a bilateral security pact aimed at addressing threats. He denounced criticism of this arrangement and discussed detainee issues while issuing military warnings regarding the White Army militia. This situation illustrates South Sudan’s ongoing security challenges amid a fragile peace agreement.
On Monday, the South Sudanese government officially acknowledged the presence of Ugandan military forces within its borders, reversing prior denials. This admission was prompted by a longstanding bilateral security agreement aimed at addressing mutual threats. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth stated that the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are performing roles characterized as “technical and support units” in collaboration with the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
This development follows a week during which the South Sudanese authorities refuted claims of the UPDF’s presence, after Uganda’s military confirmed its deployment in Juba to ensure the safety of President Salva Kiir amid escalating security challenges. The involvement of UPDF in South Sudan calls to mind Uganda’s controversial military actions during the 2013-2016 conflict, which drew global criticism.
Minister Makuei emphasized that the agreement allows for mutual defense regarding the nation’s people, government, and territorial integrity, labeling external criticisms of the deployment as unwarranted. He also noted, “This is not a secret. It happens all over the world,” drawing parallels to past U.S. military interventions in the region against the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).
Additionally, Makuei addressed the recent appeal by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), calling for the release of detained associates of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar if there is insufficient evidence against them. He reiterated that officials who have lost immunity would be investigated for possible offenses pertaining to attempts to “overthrow the government.”
Furthermore, he issued a warning to the White Army—a militia associated with Machar’s SPLA-in-Opposition—demanding their withdrawal from Nasir County in Upper Nile State. Makuei accused this group of destabilizing the region and issued a stern notice: “Any civilian in a military zone refusing to leave will be treated accordingly.” He confirmed that there would be government airstrikes in the area, specifically targeting armed factions and denying the targeting of civilians.
The South Sudanese government’s confirmation of Ugandan military presence marks a significant shift in its earlier stance, predicated on a bilateral security pact. The UPDF’s involvement revives historical precedents and underscores the ongoing security challenges within South Sudan. Furthermore, Minister Makuei’s statements regarding intergovernmental resolutions and militia threats reflect the country’s precarious political landscape, characterized by a fragile peace deal following years of civil strife.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
