South Sudan confirmed the presence of Ugandan military forces, citing a security pact. This acknowledgment came after initial denials, following Uganda’s military statement on its deployment to protect President Salva Kiir. Minister Michael Makuei Lueth explained the UPDF’s role, addressing internal political disputes and ongoing instability in the region. The situation continues to be under scrutiny as tensions persist.
On Monday, the South Sudanese government acknowledged the deployment of Ugandan military forces, reversing its previous denial and referencing a long-standing security pact aimed at addressing threats. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth stated that the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) “technical and support units” are currently engaged in operations under an agreement originally established to combat the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).
This development follows a week of official denials after Uganda’s military recognized its presence in Juba to provide protection for President Salva Kiir amidst growing security concerns. The presence of UPDF in South Sudan rekindles memories of Uganda’s controversial military involvement during the 2013-2016 conflict, which elicited international criticism.
Minister Makuei defended the deployment by stating, “This is not a secret. It happens all over the world,” drawing parallels with previous U.S. military operations in South Sudan targeting the LRA. He explained that the UPDF is supporting the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), emphasizing that the agreement allows for mutual defense of the people and government, while dismissing criticisms as unjustified.
In addition, Makuei addressed the recent resolution by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which called for the release of detained allies of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar if sufficient evidence is not present. He remarked that officials who lose immunity would be investigated for alleged attempts to overthrow the government, stating, “If innocent, they will be released. If guilty, they will face the law.”
Moreover, Makuei issued a warning to the White Army, a militia associated with Machar’s Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO), demanding their withdrawal from Nasir County in Upper Nile State or face military consequences. He accused the group, historically linked to Nuer fighters, of causing instability in the region since the 1990s. The South Sudanese government has already confirmed airstrikes on Nasir County, although Minister Makuei denied intentionally targeting civilians, clarifying, “Operations focus on armed elements.”
Currently, the South Sudanese nation remains precarious under the fragile 2018 peace agreement established between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
In conclusion, South Sudan’s government has finally acknowledged the deployment of Ugandan military forces, highlighting a bilateral agreement for mutual defense against threats. Amid ongoing internal challenges, including calls for the release of detainees and warnings against militias like the White Army, the situation remains delicate within the country under the terms of the 2018 peace deal.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
