Uganda has deployed special forces to South Sudan’s capital Juba due to rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar. This move aims to prevent further conflict following recent arrests of officials allied with Machar. The Ugandan military chief emphasized loyalty to Kiir, while concerns about regional stability persist.
Uganda has recently deployed special forces to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, to enhance security amidst escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar. The Ugandan military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, stated that this move is aimed at maintaining stability and preventing a potential return to civil war, which previously claimed nearly 400,000 lives.
Recent developments in South Sudan have contributed to this unrest, including the detention of two ministers and several senior military officials allied with Machar. Although one minister has since been released, these arrests and clashes occurring in northern regions pose a significant threat to the fragile peace established by a 2018 accord.
Kainerugaba affirmed the Ugandan military’s loyalty to President Kiir, asserting that any aggression against him would be perceived as a declaration of war against Uganda. The details surrounding the deployment, such as whether the action was requested by Kiir’s administration or the anticipated duration of the troop presence, were not disclosed.
Historically, Uganda has intervened militarily in South Sudan, deploying troops during previous bouts of conflict in 2013 and 2016 to support Kiir. These troops were withdrawn at different points but fear now exists that renewed violence could lead to increased refugee flows into Uganda and further regional instability.
The deployment of Ugandan special forces in South Sudan’s capital Juba underscores heightened tensions between its political leaders, with fears of potential civil unrest looming. Uganda’s military commitment to support President Kiir reveals concerns about regional stability and the humanitarian implications should conflict reignite. As the situation evolves, the international community will be watching closely to ascertain the impact of these developments on peace efforts in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
