Ugandan troops have been deployed to Juba, South Sudan, amid rising tensions threatening a fragile peace agreement. Concerns followed recent clashes between factions loyal to the country’s leaders. The Ugandan army chief stated that these forces would protect the South Sudanese territory, reflecting an urgent response to the instability in the region.
The Ugandan army chief announced the deployment of special forces to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, due to escalating tensions that jeopardize the fragile peace agreement in the region. South Sudan, long afflicted by political instability, has witnessed increasing violence following clashes among factions aligned with its leaders.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Ugandan army chief, confirmed via social media that special forces entered Juba two days prior to ensure security. He further stated, “We shall protect the entire territory of South Sudan like it was our own.” Additionally, Ugandan army spokesperson Felix Kulayigye affirmed the troop deployment was aimed at safeguarding the South Sudanese government.
Uganda previously intervened in South Sudan during its civil war, beginning in 2013, to assist President Salva Kiir but formally withdrew its troops by 2015. Although a power-sharing agreement was established in 2018, recent skirmishes have raised concerns over its stability.
The conflict has reignited accusations between Kiir’s allies and Vice President Riek Machar’s forces, especially regarding alleged collaboration with the White Army, a group of armed youths from Machar’s ethnic community. International concern has mounted, with the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan cautioning against an “alarming regression” in the country’s progress towards stability.
In light of these developments, the International Crisis Group has projected that South Sudan is on the verge of descending into war once again. This situation necessitates urgent international attention to avert further violence and restore peace in the region.
The deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan underscores the urgent need for stability amid escalating tensions that threaten the peace agreement established in 2018. Both local and international observers express concerns over the potential for renewed conflict in South Sudan, emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance and diplomatic efforts to ensure the nation’s security and governance.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
