Uganda has deployed elite special forces to Juba, South Sudan, to back President Kiir’s government amid escalating tensions. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba confirmed this via social media, emphasizing Uganda’s commitment to territorial defense. The situation has deteriorated due to political arrests and clashes between government forces and militias, raising regional and international concerns.
The Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has deployed elite special forces to Juba, South Sudan, to support the government led by President Salva Kiir. This deployment was confirmed by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces, through a post on X (formerly Twitter). He declared that the operation, known as ‘Mlinzi wa Kimya’ (Silent Guardian), aimed to support the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces amidst ongoing tensions in the region.
General Kainerugaba emphasized Uganda’s commitment to protecting President Kiir’s administration, stating that any threat against Kiir would be viewed as an act of war against Uganda. He pledged to protect South Sudan as if it were Uganda’s own territory. The South Sudanese government has yet to make an official comment on this military support amidst rising tensions between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, as fears mount that their fragile peace accord from 2018 may collapse.
The unrest began escalating after the detention of two ministers and the deputy army chief, allies of Machar, which opposition figures decried as a significant breach of the peace agreement. Clashes broke out between government forces and the White Army militia in Upper Nile State, sparking further violence. A UN helicopter was also targeted during an evacuation mission, resulting in several fatalities.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) announced a virtual summit scheduled for March 12, 2025, to discuss the crisis in South Sudan. The organization reiterated its dedication to fostering dialogue and promoting calm in the region. Concurrently, the United States has evacuated its non-emergency diplomatic staff from South Sudan due to escalating violence and growing concerns over the potential for civilian armament.
Following its independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan descended into civil war in 2013 due to a power struggle between Kiir and Machar, resulting in over 400,000 deaths. The Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018 has not fully been implemented, leaving many critical aspects, such as forming a unified army and holding national elections, unaddressed, thus perpetuating the ongoing tensions.
In summary, Uganda has deployed elite troops to Juba to bolster President Kiir’s government amidst escalating political tensions. The situation in South Sudan demands urgent attention due to instances of violence and a fractured peace agreement. Efforts by regional bodies like IGAD and international responses reflect the global concerns surrounding stability in South Sudan following years of sustained conflict. Without significant action to implement disbanded agreements, the potential for renewed civil strife remains a pressing issue.
Original Source: softpower.ug
