The Ugandan Parliament approved the deployment of UPDF in South Sudan amidst civil unrest. The motion, presented by Defence Minister Hon. Jacob Oboth, was backed by lawmakers citing the need for regional stability and peace. This deployment underscores Uganda’s commitment to regional solidarity and protection of national interests.
The Parliament of Uganda has given its approval for the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in South Sudan. The motion was presented by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth, during a parliamentary sitting led by Speaker Anita Among on March 20, 2025.
Minister Oboth explained that civil unrest had erupted in South Sudan’s Upper Nile State in early March, which led President Salva Kiir to urgently seek support from President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda. He mentioned, “On March 10, 2025, in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation, President Kiir requested military support to avert a potential security catastrophe.”
Responding to the request, President Museveni authorized the deployment of UPDF, adhering to the constitutional mandate and the UPDF Act. Oboth emphasized that this decision reflects Uganda’s commitment to principles of patriotism, nationalism, and Pan-Africanism, aimed at fostering regional solidarity.
Oboth further justified the UPDF’s deployment by identifying potential serious negative security implications for Uganda if the unrest in South Sudan escalates. He asserted, “The deployment of UPDF has previously facilitated the stabilization of security and peace enforcement in South Sudan, benefiting not just Uganda but the entire region and Africa.”
Hon. Gilbert Olanya from FDC (Kilak South County) expressed his support for the motion, urging fellow lawmakers to similarly endorse the deployment. He stated, “Anyone who comes from Acholi and West Nile would highly support the deployment of UPDF in South Sudan. For the sake of peace for the people of Northern Uganda and those doing business in South Sudan, we must highly support this.”
Olanya concluded that the deployment of UPDF is vital for ensuring peace in both South Sudan and Uganda.
The decision by the Ugandan Parliament to approve the deployment of UPDF in South Sudan reflects a proactive approach to regional security. The involvement of the UPDF aims to stabilize the situation in South Sudan and prevent spillover effects that could adversely affect Uganda. With strong bipartisan support, the deployment signifies a commitment to regional peace and cooperation.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
