Uganda has sent special forces to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, to help secure the area as conflict fears rise between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. This military deployment aims to prevent a potential civil war, reflecting heightened tensions following recent violence and political detentions. The international community, including the United Nations, is urging dialogue to resolve the escalating situation.
Uganda has recently deployed special forces to South Sudan amid escalating concerns over potential civil war. The military chief of Uganda confirmed that these troops aim to help secure Juba, the capital of South Sudan, as tensions rise between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, leading to increased clashes.
The Ugandan military announced their presence via social media, asserting their commitment to supporting Kiir’s government. “We only recognize one President of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir… Any move against him is a declaration of war against Uganda,” stated Muhoozi Kainerugaba, signaling Kampala’s readiness to intervene.
The extent of the troop deployment remains unclear, including how long they will stay in Juba or whether their support was requested by Kiir. Recent clashes in South Sudan indicate a frustrating deterioration in the power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar, which aims to prevent a recurrence of their previous civil war.
Last week, Kiir’s government detained multiple officials associated with Machar, intensifying fears of renewed conflict. Despite Kiir’s insistence on maintaining peace, analysts remain cautious about the situation possibly escalating further.
The United Nations has urged both leaders and factions to prioritize dialogue and avoid violence, especially in light of recent deadly clashes in the northern town of Nasir. Uganda’s military actions echo its involvement during South Sudan’s civil war beginning in 2013, highlighting regional concerns over stability amid rising tensions.
Additionally, Uganda has been active in combating threats from rebel groups along its borders, notably in the Democratic Republic of the Congo where ongoing conflicts have prompted military responses. The ongoing unrest in South Sudan poses a direct threat to Uganda, raising fears that a civil war could lead to waves of refugees and destabilize the region further.
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of troops to South Sudan reflects rising fears of civil war stemming from tensions between President Kiir and Vice President Machar. The Ugandan military’s commitment to support Kiir amidst escalating violence signals a serious regional concern for stability. The international community, especially the United Nations, advocates for urgent dialogue to maintain peace and prevent further conflict. The historical context of Uganda’s involvement underscores the potential implications of continued unrest.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
