The United People’s Alliance condemns South Sudan’s decision to invite Ugandan troops amid escalating tensions. The move is seen as part of a strategy to reignite conflict. The UPA calls for the withdrawal of foreign troops and warns of the implications for the fragile peace agreement that ended a previous civil war.
The United People’s Alliance (UPA) has strongly criticized the South Sudanese government for its decision to invite the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) amidst tensions in Upper Nile, Western Bhar Ghazal, and Western Equatoria states. This statement arises as the UPA, a coalition formed in January comprising the South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA) and other opposition groups, convenes for the Kenyan government-mediated Tumaini Initiative peace talks. General Pa’gan Amum Okiech was appointed as UPA’s Chairperson and Commander-in-Chief.
In a press release from UPA Secretary General Lual Dau, the alliance emphasized the dire circumstances in South Sudan as its citizens rise against an escalating economic, humanitarian, and political crisis resulting from government mismanagement. The UPA remarked on the ruling government’s actions, stating, “Unlike in other countries where governments value the wellbeing and security of their citizens, the ruling clique in Juba masquerading as a government has once again demonstrated that returning the country to war is intentional.”
The UPA characterized the invitation of foreign troops as a calculated strategy to reignite conflict in South Sudan, thereby deeming the revitalized peace agreement (R-ARCSS) ineffective. They have called for the immediate withdrawal of all non-UN mandated foreign military personnel from South Sudan and urged the international community to prevent further escalation.
Furthermore, the UPA implored all opposition members, political activists, and citizens to actively protest against the government’s intentions to deploy foreign forces for repression, advocating for solidarity during this critical period. A key remark from their statement reads, “We urge the region and the international community to stand in solidarity with our people during these decisive moments.”
On a concerning note, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defense Forces of the UPDF, indicated through his social media that Ugandan troops’ presence was to protect President Salva Kiir and secure Juba. However, South Sudan’s Information Minister Michael Makuei refuted claims of UPDF deployment, while the UPDF’s spokesperson confirmed the deployment of special forces to assist Kiir’s administration. The exact nature of their deployment remains ambiguous, lacking official authorization from Uganda’s parliament.
Recent hostilities between forces loyal to President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, leading the SPLM/A-IO, have surged. Militia factions aligned with Machar recently overtook Nasir in Upper Nile State, resulting in numerous casualties and a crackdown on Machar’s supporters by Kiir’s administration, which included the detention of senior military officials. This unrest raises significant concerns regarding the stability of the fragile peace agreement established in 2018 following a protracted civil conflict.
The UPA’s condemnation of the government’s decision to invite UPDF troops reflects broader concerns regarding the potential resurgence of conflict in South Sudan. Their call for the withdrawal of foreign forces underscores the importance of sovereignty amidst rising tensions. Clarity on military deployments and concerted efforts from both the government and international community will be crucial in maintaining peace and facilitating stabilization following the fragile peace agreement.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
