Uganda has deployed special forces to Juba to support President Salva Kiir amid escalating tensions with his deputy, Riek Machar. The U.S. has ordered the evacuation of non-emergency staff as security concerns rise following arrests of Machar’s allies. Key aspects of the 2018 peace agreement remain unfulfilled, raising fears of renewed conflicts.
Uganda has initiated the deployment of special forces to the capital of South Sudan, Juba, to assist President Salva Kiir. This announcement was made by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the military chief of Uganda, amid rising tensions between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar. There are growing concerns that the fragile peace agreement established between the two leaders may disintegrate, leading to renewed conflict.
General Kainerugaba has asserted that any action against President Kiir is tantamount to a declaration of war against Uganda. He emphasized Uganda’s commitment to the security of South Sudan, stating they will defend the nation’s territory as if it were their own. The government of South Sudan has yet to respond to this military deployment.
The security situation in South Sudan has been increasingly alarming, prompting the United States to order the evacuation of all non-emergency personnel from the country. Tensions escalated following the recent arrests of the deputy chief of the army and two ministers, who are supporters of Machar. An opposition spokesman labeled the arrests as a serious breach of the peace agreement. One minister has reportedly been released.
These arrests occurred after violent confrontations in the Upper Nile state between government forces and a militia called the White Army, known for aligning with Machar during the earlier civil conflict. This civil war, which erupted in 2013 due to a power struggle between Kiir and Machar, resulted in over 400,000 fatalities. While a power-sharing agreement was established in 2018, critical components, such as a new constitution and an election, have yet to be fulfilled, maintaining instability in the region.
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of forces to South Sudan arises from escalated tensions between President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, raising fears of a potential return to conflict. General Kainerugaba has made strong statements regarding military support for Kiir’s government, while the United States has reacted by evacuating personnel due to security concerns. The situation remains precarious as key elements of the peace deal between the South Sudanese leadership are yet to be effectively implemented.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
