The Ugandan Parliament granted approval for the deployment of the UPDF to South Sudan following a request for urgent military support from President Salva Kiir. Minister Jacob Oboth outlined the reasons for this deployment, including historical ties and a commitment to regional stability. Lawmakers expressed the importance of this action for peace in both nations.
On March 20, 2025, the Parliament of Uganda approved the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan. The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth, presented the motion during a session chaired by Speaker Anita Among. He detailed that civil unrest in South Sudan’s Upper Nile State had prompted President Salva Kiir to urgently request military assistance from President Yoweri Museveni.
According to Hon. Oboth, on March 10, 2025, President Kiir formally requested military support to avert a potential security catastrophe, citing the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation. Following this, President Museveni enacted the deployment for a peace enforcement mission, a decision supported by constitutional and legal frameworks governing the UPDF.
Hon. Oboth emphasized that this action reflects Uganda’s commitment to patriotism and Pan-Africanism, underscoring the historical bonds shared between Uganda and South Sudan. He asserted that the deployment is expected to stabilize security, enforce peace, protect lives, and prevent conflict escalation, which in turn benefits both nations and the wider region.
Hon. Gilbert Olanya from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) expressed support for the deployment, emphasizing that it is crucial for peace in both South Sudan and Uganda. He remarked that it would particularly aid those in Northern Uganda and individuals conducting business in South Sudan. Olanya highlighted the importance of standing together for peace during turbulent times.
The Ugandan Parliament’s support for the UPDF deployment to South Sudan represents a significant step in maintaining regional stability and security. The backing from both the Defense Minister and lawmakers demonstrates a collective commitment to safeguarding peace. As articulated by parliament members, the deployment is anticipated to not only reinforce South Sudan’s peace but also ensure the safety of Ugandan interests in the region.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
