Ugandan special forces have been sent to Juba, South Sudan, to secure peace after rising tensions between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. Following recent clashes, the Ugandan army chief emphasized protection of South Sudan’s territory. Concerns over escalating conflict and a fragile power-sharing agreement have drawn international attention, with the UN warning of an alarming regression in stability and a potential return to civil war.
The Ugandan army chief announced the deployment of Ugandan special forces to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, amid escalating tensions that jeopardize a fragile peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. This recent measure follows increased violence in the region, particularly following clashes among forces loyal to the leaders of South Sudan.
Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba stated on X, “As of 2 days ago, our Special Forces units entered Juba to secure it.” He emphasized a commitment to safeguard the territory, asserting, “We shall protect the entire territory of South Sudan like it was our own.” Ugandan army spokesman Felix Kulayigye corroborated these statements, confirming that the troops were deployed with the intention of protecting the South Sudanese government.
Uganda’s military presence in South Sudan dates back to 2013, when troops were initially sent to support President Kiir during the civil war that ensued. Although Uganda withdrew its forces in 2015 following a fragile power-sharing deal in 2018, ongoing clashes threaten this agreement. Recent unrest was exacerbated by an attack on a UN helicopter, resulting in the deaths of South Sudanese army personnel, a situation that UNMISS suggested could amount to a war crime.
President Kiir has urged citizens to maintain calm, reiterating his stance against the return to war. He expressed confidence in the government’s capacity to manage the current crisis and affirmed a continuous commitment to peace. Conversely, Kiir’s allies have placed blame on Machar’s forces for disrupting the stability in the area, accusing them of collaborating with armed youths known as the White Army.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the UN Commission on Human Rights has observed a troubling regression in South Sudan, warning that hard-earned advancements may be at risk. The International Crisis Group has also cautioned that the country is on the verge of descending into full-scale war, with concerns raised regarding potential ethnic violence if immediate action is not taken to restore stability.
The announcement of Ugandan troop deployment to South Sudan comes at a critical juncture, as tensions rise amidst ongoing instability and violence. With various stakeholders expressing concerns about the potential for renewed conflict, the focus remains on maintaining peace and stability in the region. International observers continue to monitor the situation closely, highlighting the need for an urgent resolution to prevent further deterioration.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
