Uganda Deploys Troops to South Sudan Amid Rising Tensions

The Ugandan army chief confirmed the deployment of special forces to Juba, South Sudan, due to rising tensions threatening the peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. This intervention is aimed at stabilizing the area following recent violent clashes. Both leaders have called for calm while international organizations warn of a potential relapse into full-scale war.

Ugandan special forces have been deployed to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, amid escalating tensions that jeopardize a fragile peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. The Ugandan army chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, made this announcement, indicating that the troops aim to secure the area as clashes between rival factions have broken out. The deployment reflects deep-seated concerns over South Sudan’s ongoing political turmoil.

Kainerugaba stated, “As of 2 days ago, our Special Forces units entered Juba to secure it” and emphasized a commitment to protect South Sudan as if it were Uganda’s own territory. Ugandan army spokesman Felix Kulayigye reinforced this message, confirming the troop presence is intended to bolster government security. Uganda’s historical involvement in South Sudan dates back to the 2013 civil war, and its troops previously withdrew in 2015 following a power-sharing agreement.

This agreement, designed to end the conflict, is now at risk due to recent clashes primarily occurring in the northeastern region. One significant incident involved a UN helicopter that was attacked while attempting to retrieve South Sudanese military personnel, resulting in casualties and possibly constituting a war crime according to the UN.

President Kiir has appealed for calm, asserting, “I have said it time and again that our country will not go back to war.” He assured citizens of the government’s capability to manage the crisis and reiterated the importance of maintaining peace. Meanwhile, Machar’s representatives condemned the helicopter attack as “barbaric” and emphasized ongoing efforts to engage stakeholders for peace restoration.

International reactions highlight growing concerns regarding South Sudan’s stability, with the UN Commission on Human Rights warning of an “alarming regression” in human rights and progress. The International Crisis Group has signaled a rapidly deteriorating situation, urging the UN to mobilize peacekeeping efforts to safeguard civilians and prevent potential ethnic violence.

In conclusion, the deployment of Ugandan special forces to South Sudan’s capital reflects the urgent need to address the escalating tensions between rival political factions. With a fragile peace agreement at stake, both leaders have made statements urging calm and asserting their commitment to stability. International bodies express significant concern over the potential for renewed conflict, underscoring the necessity for renewed efforts toward peace and security in the region.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr