Uganda has deployed additional troops to South Sudan as part of “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya” to support local government forces amid escalating conflict. This move follows violence in Upper Nile State and political unrest in Juba. While the deployment is justified by a historical pact against groups like the LRA, opposition voices express concerns over its implications for regional stability.
On March 20, 2025, Uganda increased its military presence in South Sudan with additional forces as part of “Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya.” This decision comes amid rising conflict between the South Sudanese government and armed groups, particularly following recent violence in Upper Nile State and political unrest in Juba.
Colonel Chris Magezi, the acting army spokesman, confirmed the troop reinforcements, emphasizing the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF)’s dedication to fostering regional stability and assisting the South Sudanese government forces.
The mission, initiated on March 11, 2025, commenced with special operations forces being deployed via Juba International Airport. This has since expanded with additional UPDF task force elements entering through the Uganda-South Sudan border points at Bibia and Nimule, under the command of Brigadier General Anthony Mbuusi Lukwago.
Favorable views on this military deployment stem from a long-standing military agreement between Uganda and South Sudan, created to combat detrimental forces, including the notorious Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Michael Makuei Leuth, underscored this rationale, affirming that the UPDF’s participation is in line with this pact to lend support to the South Sudanese People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
Nevertheless, critics contend that Uganda’s intervention is primarily aimed at bolstering President Salva Kiir’s administration amidst intensifying opposition. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, declared that any aggression against Kiir would be interpreted as a declaration of war against Uganda.
The conflict in South Sudan has escalated with intense clashes between government forces and the White Army, a formidable Nuer militia implicated in severe violence. Recent fighting near Nasir led to serious incidents, including the assault of a UN helicopter. Minister Makuei has issued stern warnings to the White Army, conveying that they must retreat to non-military regions or face military action.
The urgency for the White Army to withdraw from designated military zones is particularly emphasized in key areas of conflict, such as Nelson. Meanwhile, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus of Uganda has voted in favor of the UPDF deployment as a preventive measure against further instability in the region. The international community, including the United Nations, has yet to formally react to Uganda’s defense of its military presence in South Sudan under the anti-LRA agreement.
In conclusion, Uganda’s recent military escalation in South Sudan reflects a determined effort to support regional stability and assist the South Sudanese government amid increasing conflict. The deployment, justified by historical agreements, has drawn attention both for its intentions and implications on local politics, particularly concerning opposition forces. As tensions rise, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments necessitating careful monitoring from both national and international stakeholders.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
