Uganda has sent special forces to Juba, South Sudan, to support President Kiir amidst rising tensions with Deputy Riek Machar, raising fears of renewed conflict. General Kainerugaba emphasized Uganda’s commitment to South Sudan’s security. Recent arrests of allies of Machar have escalated the situation, complicating the fragile peace agreement established in 2018.
Uganda has deployed special forces to Juba, South Sudan, as affirmed by the Ugandan military chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The purpose of this deployment is to support President Salva Kiir amidst escalating tensions between himself and Deputy Riek Machar. This situation raises concerns about the stability of their fragile peace deal and the potential resumption of conflict.
General Kainerugaba did not elaborate on the reasons for the military action but expressed that any aggression against President Kiir would be viewed as a declaration of war against Uganda. He stated, “We shall protect the entire territory of South Sudan like it was our own”, underlining Uganda’s commitment to assist their neighbor in maintaining security. There has been no official response from the South Sudanese government regarding the deployment.
Concerns about South Sudan’s security dynamics have intensified, prompting the U.S. government to evacuate all non-emergency personnel from the nation. Recent events have exacerbated these fears, particularly following the arrest of the deputy chief of the army and two ministers, who are allies of Machar. An opposition spokesman labeled these arrests a significant breach of the existing peace agreement.
The arrests were linked to clashes in Upper Nile state between the government forces and a militia known as the White Army, known for its historical role in supporting Machar during the civil war that commenced in 2013. This conflict resulted from a political rivalry between Kiir and Machar, leading to significant violence and the death toll exceeding 400,000 individuals.
A power-sharing agreement established in 2018 halted hostilities, yet essential components of the agreement remain unfulfilled, including the establishment of a new constitution, scheduled elections, and the consolidation of armed factions into a unified national army.
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of troops to South Sudan responds to increasing tensions between President Kiir and Riek Machar. With security concerns rising, particularly following political arrests, the stability of the region remains in jeopardy. Despite the 2018 power-sharing agreement, unresolved issues pose a risk for renewed conflict. The international community is closely monitoring these developments to prevent a resurgence of violence.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
