The UPA has condemned South Sudan’s invitation to Ugandan forces, citing rising tensions and fears of renewed violence. The UPA calls for foreign troop withdrawal and urges solidarity from the international community, emphasizing the critical state of the country amidst ongoing political strife.
The United People’s Alliance (UPA) has publicly condemned the Government of South Sudan for inviting the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to assist amid ongoing tensions in Upper Nile, Western Bhar Ghazal, and Western Equatoria states. The UPA coalition, composed of various opposition factions, was formed to harmonize efforts in the ongoing peace negotiations under the Kenyan-mediated Tumaini Initiative.
In a statement released by UPA Secretary General Lual Dau, the organization emphasized that South Sudan is facing a critical moment, with escalating public discontent aimed at addressing the economic and humanitarian crises caused by government mismanagement. The UPA described the government’s actions as a deliberate effort to reignite conflict, asserting that the invitation for foreign troop presence demonstrates an intention to revert to war rather than prioritize citizen well-being.
The UPA has explicitly called for the withdrawal of all foreign forces not authorized by the United Nations and urged regional and international stakeholders to avoid worsening South Sudan’s unstable situation. Furthermore, the UPA encouraged opposition groups, activists, and citizens to mobilize against the government’s foreign troop strategies to prevent a full-scale war, appealing for solidarity during these crucial times.
Amid these developments, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defense Forces of Uganda, stated via social media that Ugandan troops are deployed in South Sudan to safeguard President Salva Kiir and ensure capital security. However, the South Sudan Information Minister has denied these claims, although confirmation of UPDF special forces presence has been made, raising concerns regarding the legitimacy of the deployment approval.
Tensions between President Kiir’s forces and those led by First Vice President Riek Machar have risen, particularly after recent attacks by militias loyal to Machar. This violence has led to a clampdown on Machar’s supporters, heightening anxieties about the sustainability of the peace agreement established in 2018, which had concluded a devastating five-year civil conflict.
In summary, the UPA has strongly criticized the South Sudanese government for inviting the UPDF during a period of heightened tension, alleging that this move signifies an intent to return to war. The UPA calls for the immediate withdrawal of foreign troops and seeks solidarity from both regional and international bodies. The ongoing conflict raises significant questions regarding the future viability of the peace agreement that ended an extensive civil conflict.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
