Uganda Sends Troops to South Sudan Amidst Growing Civil War Fears

Uganda has dispatched special forces to South Sudan to support President Salva Kiir amid escalating tensions with his deputy, Riek Machar. The deployment aims to mitigate potential rebel actions in the capital, Juba. Political instability persists as both leaders face pressure to implement a stalled peace deal and prepare for elections in 2026.

Uganda has recently deployed an unspecified number of special forces to South Sudan, primarily to safeguard President Salva Kiir’s government amidst escalating tensions that threaten to reignite civil war. The deployment to Juba aims to counter possible rebel advances, as confirmed by Ugandan military spokesperson Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, who emphasized that the troops are not involved in peacekeeping efforts.

This action reflects Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s role as a guarantor of the peace process that maintains the fragile unity between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar. Historically, Museveni has intervened in South Sudan’s conflicts to support Kiir’s administration, highlighting the close alliance between the two leaders.

The deployment comes against a backdrop of political instability, as fighting intensifies in northern South Sudan between government forces and the rebel White Army, allegedly aligned with Machar. Recently, a UN helicopter mission aimed at evacuating troops faced gunfire, highlighting the precarious situation within Upper Nile state.

Tensions have further escalated, with government forces arresting key associates of Machar while surrounding his residence in Juba. This move follows accusations from Machar regarding Kiir’s unilateral decisions that undermine the peace agreement established in 2018.

Following the recent violence, President Kiir has called for calm, assuring his commitment to maintaining peace in the region. The fragile state of affairs in South Sudan is reminiscent of past civil conflicts, with ethnic divisions exacerbating the political rivalry between Kiir and Machar.

Both leaders face increasing pressure to honor their peace commitments and proceed with electoral preparations, with the next presidential elections set for 2026. However, ongoing challenges, such as unfulfilled reforms and military unification, hinder progress toward enduring stability in South Sudan.

The deployment of Ugandan special forces to South Sudan underlines a critical moment for the nation as it grapples with heightened tensions and the potential for renewed civil unrest. President Kiir’s government seeks to secure its position while managing internal strife exacerbated by rival factions. With international oversight, both Kiir and Machar must work towards implementing their stalled peace agreements and address the political complexities that hinder stability. The eyes of the world remain on South Sudan as it attempts to navigate these turbulent waters in pursuit of lasting peace.

Original Source: www.newsday.com