Ugandan Army Chief Declares UPDF’s Commitment to Protect South Sudan’s President Kiir

Ugandan Army Chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba announced the deployment of UPDF troops to South Sudan to protect President Salva Kiir and secure Juba. He stated that any threats to Kiir would be treated as a declaration of war against Uganda. Kainerugaba’s remarks have previously incited diplomatic tensions with neighboring countries, raising concerns about regional security and international norms.

In an early morning announcement on Tuesday, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of the Defense Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), stated via X (formerly Twitter) that Ugandan troops have been deployed to South Sudan to protect President Salva Kiir and secure Juba. He emphasized the UPDF’s exclusive recognition of President Kiir, asserting that any actions against him would be viewed as a declaration of war against Uganda.

Gen. Kainerugaba remarked, “We the UPDF, only recognize ONE President of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir… Any move against him is a declaration of war against Uganda!” He confirmed that UPDF Special Forces had entered Juba two days prior to ensure security, and committed to safeguarding South Sudan’s territory as if it were Uganda’s own.

The general’s social media comments have previously provoked diplomatic tensions, such as a December 2022 post threatening to address mercenaries in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which led to an official summoning of Uganda’s representative in Kinshasa by the DRC government for clarification on Uganda’s stance.

Moreover, Sudan’s government demanded an apology from Uganda following Gen. Kainerugaba’s remarks in December 2024 about seizing Khartoum after Donald Trump’s inauguration, labeling his comments “reckless and irresponsible.” They urged international and regional bodies to condemn his statements, asserting that such threats to sovereignty and security cannot be trivialized.

Gen. Kainerugaba has a history regarding relations with South Sudan, having been present during the UPDF’s intervention amidst the South Sudanese civil conflict starting in late 2013, when Uganda aimed to protect its citizens and assist in the security of key locations like Juba International Airport. His subsequent participation reportedly escalated into offensive actions against rebel forces, inciting criticism over alleged violations of conduct and international norms.

Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s recent statements underscore Uganda’s military commitments in South Sudan, particularly in support of President Salva Kiir. His remarks have sparked controversy and diplomatic reactions from neighboring countries, illustrating the delicate balance of regional relations. The history of UPDF’s involvement in South Sudan further complicates the dynamics of security and sovereignty within the region. Overall, these developments highlight the ongoing tensions and intricate relationships among East African nations.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org