The NRM parliamentary caucus in Uganda has approved the deployment of UPDF to South Sudan to restore stability amidst escalating conflicts between competing factions. This decision followed discussions led by President Museveni and reflects the necessity of safeguarding regional security. Despite some debate over parliamentary approval, the deployment was deemed essential to prevent further violence and maintain peace in the region.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary caucus in Uganda has endorsed the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan, recognizing it as a crucial step toward restoring stability in the conflict-affected nation. This decision was taken during a meeting led by President Yoweri Museveni at State House Entebbe on Thursday.
Rising tensions between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar have recently exacerbated the conflict, with militia groups linked to Machar encountering severe violence in Upper Nile State, resulting in numerous casualties, including the death of an SSPDF commander. Following these events, Kiir’s administration intensified actions against perceived allies of Machar, leading to the detention of several officials, including the Petroleum Minister.
These developments have rekindled fears concerning the 2018 peace agreement intended to stabilize South Sudan, which previously endured a brutal five-year civil war. Chief Whip Hamson Obua’s statement affirmed that the UPDF deployment aligns with Uganda’s constitutional framework and serves as a necessary intervention to enforce peace, protect citizens, and prevent further violence.
Furthermore, the caucus expressed its intention to seek parliamentary approval for the deployment to adhere to constitutional protocols. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth revealed his ignorance regarding the troop movements, as reports indicated Ugandan forces had already arrived in Juba to bolster Kiir’s regime.
Colonel Chris Magezi, Military Assistant for Public Relations, later clarified that UPDF acted swiftly following a request from South Sudan’s government to mitigate an escalating security crisis, emphasizing the importance of maintaining regional stability. He noted that operational details would be communicated to the Defence Minister in due course, asserting the necessity of the urgent response from UPDF.
The UPDF’s deployment has initiated debates within Uganda’s Parliament, with some members questioning the absence of initial approval. However, NRM has collectively supported this deployment as vital for safeguarding regional security. South Sudan, independent since 2011, has faced ongoing internal strife that frequently disrupts peace initiatives in the area. Historically, Uganda has been involved in South Sudanese conflicts, including a notable military intervention in 2013 to support Kiir amid the civil war initiated by disputes with Machar.
The endorsement of the UPDF deployment by Uganda’s NRM caucus emphasizes the country’s commitment to addressing instability in South Sudan. Despite some concerns regarding parliamentary oversight, the decision underscores the urgent need for peace enforcement in the region, reflecting Uganda’s long history of involvement in South Sudanese conflicts. The dynamics at play indicate that Uganda’s military actions could significantly influence the fragile security landscape in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
