The Ugandan Parliament has approved the deployment of UPDF in South Sudan to address escalating violence. Minister Oboth noted that the decision stems from South Sudan’s request for assistance amid civil unrest. The deployment is viewed as a protective measure for both nations’ security and regional stability.
The Parliament of Uganda has sanctioned the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in South Sudan to address escalating civil unrest. During a session on March 20, 2025, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth, presented the motion that received unanimous support from lawmakers.
Hon. Oboth explained that turmoil in South Sudan’s Upper Nile State began to intensify in early March, prompting President Salva Kiir to urgently seek military assistance from Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. On March 10, 2025, Kiir invoked a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation to request Museveni’s support to prevent a looming security disaster.
Subsequent to the appeal, President Museveni authorized the UPDF’s deployment for a peace enforcement mission. This decisive action stemmed from constitutional mandates and was also driven by Uganda’s principles of patriotism, nationalism, and Pan-Africanism, as articulated by Oboth.
The Minister further emphasized that the deployment aims to mitigate potential adverse security effects on Uganda due to instability in South Sudan. He asserted that the UPDF’s presence has historically contributed to maintaining security and peace, which are vital for the well-being of both nations and the broader African region.
Hon. Gilbert Olanya (FDC, Kilak South County) supported the motion, appealing to fellow lawmakers to back the deployment. He noted that the UPDF’s involvement not only fosters peace in South Sudan but also enhances security for communities in Northern Uganda engaged in cross-border trade, reinforcing regional stability.
In conclusion, the Ugandan Parliament’s endorsement of the UPDF’s deployment in South Sudan reflects a commitment to regional stability amid rising unrest. The decision arises from a request for assistance from South Sudan, driven by constitutional imperatives and cooperative agreements. The deployment is seen as critical for security, benefiting both Ugandan and South Sudanese citizens.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
