The NRM parliamentary caucus has endorsed the deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan, aiming to restore stability amid rising tensions between rival forces. The decision follows recent violent conflicts and concerns surrounding a fragile peace agreement established in 2018. Defence officials cited the deployment as an urgent response to South Sudan’s request for assistance, sparking discussions about parliamentary procedures and regional security implications.
The Uganda MPs have backed the deployment of Ugandan troops to South Sudan to enhance stability in the nation ravaged by conflict, as declared by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) caucus during a meeting led by President Yoweri Museveni. This action comes amid rising tensions between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar’s forces, following recent violent incidents, including an attack by militias loyal to Machar in Upper Nile State.
The violence has prompted significant crackdowns by Kiir’s government, detaining key figures, including the Petroleum Minister and high-ranking military officials aligned with Machar. These developments have triggered fresh apprehension regarding the fragile peace established by the 2018 agreement, which ended a prolonged civil war. The NRM caucus, in a statement by Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua, asserted that deploying the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is a constitutional measure aimed at enforcing peace and safeguarding lives.
Additionally, the caucus is prioritizing parliamentary approval for the troop deployment as mandated by constitutional protocols. Concerns were raised by lawmakers regarding the UPDF’s presence, but Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth conveyed ignorance of deployment status, contradicting reports of troops arriving in Juba. Colonel Chris Magezi later clarified the UPDF’s rapid deployment as a response to South Sudan’s government’s urgent appeal to avoid worsening security conditions.
The deployment has ignited discussion among Ugandan lawmakers, some expressing concerns about the absence of preliminary parliamentary consent. Nonetheless, the NRM caucus contends this mission is vital for upholding regional stability. Given South Sudan’s ongoing internal conflicts since its independence in 2011, Uganda has historically intervened in various capacities, notably during the civil war that began in 2013, supporting Kiir against Machar’s forces.
In summary, the endorsement of the UPDF deployment to South Sudan by Uganda’s NRM parliamentary caucus is a strategic initiative aimed at restoring stability amid escalating tensions. This deployment is portrayed as a necessary action for peace enforcement and the protection of lives. The ongoing discussions within Uganda’s parliament reflect concerns about constitutional adherence, yet the NRM’s support underscores its perceived significance for regional security.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
