South Sudan’s government confirmed the presence of Ugandan military forces, reversing earlier denials. The acknowledgment is grounded in a bilateral security pact aimed at addressing threats, particularly concerning the Lord’s Resistance Army. Key remarks by Minister Michael Makuei indicated that the UPDF operates as support for the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces. Meanwhile, tensions continue with threats towards the White Army militia amid ongoing instability in the region.
On Monday, South Sudan’s government officially acknowledged the presence of Ugandan military forces, reversing its previous denial. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth stated that the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are operating in South Sudan under a military agreement aimed at addressing threats, founded to combat the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).
This recognition came after Uganda’s military disclosed its deployment in Juba to enhance security for President Salva Kiir amidst rising violence. The current situation brings to mind Uganda’s contentious military involvement in South Sudan during the conflicts from 2013 to 2016, which attracted global scrutiny.
Minister Makuei noted that the UPDF acts as “support units assisting their brothers and sisters” in the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). He maintained that the agreement allows for mutual defense of the nation’s people, government, and territorial integrity, and dismissed criticism of the deployment as unjustified.
Makuei further addressed the recent Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) resolution that called for the release of detained associates of First Vice President Riek Machar if there is inadequate evidence against them. He indicated that officials stripped of immunity would be investigated for possible plots to “overthrow the government.”
Additionally, he warned members of the White Army—a militia associated with Machar’s Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO)—to vacate Nasir County or face military action. He claimed the group, known for its historical ties to Nuer civilians, has fostered instability in the Upper Nile, having evolved into factions such as the Nuer Defence Force.
“Any civilian in a military zone refusing to leave will be treated accordingly,” he affirmed, while confirming government airstrikes in Nasir County but denying any targeting of civilians.
The White Army has not yet reacted to these developments, as South Sudan’s political landscape remains precarious following the fragile 2018 peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
In conclusion, the acknowledgment of UPDF forces in South Sudan marks a significant shift from earlier denials by the government, citing a longstanding military agreement. The statements from Minister Michael Makuei highlight ongoing security challenges and the complexities surrounding regional relationships and internal conflicts. Furthermore, the call for the White Army to vacate Nasir County illustrates the continued instability in the region, emphasizing the fragile nature of the peace agreement established in 2018.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
