Ugandan Army Chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba announced on social media that UPDF troops have been deployed to South Sudan to protect President Salva Kiir and secure Juba. He declared Uganda’s unwavering support for Kiir, stating any actions against him would be treated as acts of war. His past controversial statements have sparked diplomatic tensions with neighboring nations, raising concerns over his approach to regional security.
On Tuesday, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Chief of Defense Forces, announced via his social media platform that Ugandan troops had been deployed to South Sudan to protect President Salva Kiir and to secure the capital, Juba. He emphasized that the UPDF only recognizes President Kiir, asserting that any action against him would be viewed as a declaration of war against Uganda.
General Kainerugaba stated, “We the UPDF, only recognize ONE President of South Sudan, H.E. Salva Kiir, he is our ‘Afande’ even in UPDF because he is the younger brother of Mzee [Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni]!” He reaffirmed that the UPDF’s Special Forces units entered Juba to ensure its security and that Uganda would protect South Sudan as though it were its own territory, underscoring his commitment to safeguarding the region.
The General is known for his provocative statements on X, which have often strained Uganda’s diplomatic relations with neighboring countries. In December 2022, he controversially threatened white mercenaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), prompting a strong diplomatic reaction from the DRC government.
Sudan similarly condemned General Kainerugaba’s previous inflammatory remarks regarding potential military actions in Khartoum, demanding an official apology from Uganda. The Sudanese foreign ministry criticized his statements as reckless and irresponsible, claiming they violate the norms of diplomatic conduct and international law while calling for condemnation from regional bodies.
Previously, General Kainerugaba had made threats regarding an invasion of Kenya, for which President Museveni later issued an apology to the Kenyan government. His involvement in South Sudan dates back to the UPDF’s intervention following the outbreak of war in December 2013, initially aimed at securing Juba International Airport but evolving to include combat against rebel forces while facing allegations of using cluster bombs in conflict.
In conclusion, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s recent announcement of UPDF troop deployment in South Sudan marks a significant posture toward regional security and the defense of President Salva Kiir. His statements, however, have previously led to diplomatic tensions with neighboring countries, raising concerns about international norms and relations. The General’s proactive stance may reinforce Uganda’s commitment to its allies, yet it also risks exacerbating regional instability amidst historical conflicts and allegations of military violation of laws.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
