Uganda’s NRM has approved UPDF deployment to South Sudan in response to President Kiir’s plea amid escalating violence. The intervention is justified as necessary for peace and stability, marking a significant involvement of Uganda in South Sudan’s security. However, it may provoke tensions with regional players.
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus of Uganda has sanctioned the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan. This endorsement, passed during a meeting at State House Entebbe on March 14, 2025, aligns with both Uganda’s Constitution and the UPDF Act while responding to a request for military assistance from South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, amidst escalating violence.
In their resolution, the NRM Caucus emphasized Uganda’s historic commitment to regional stability, referencing previous interventions in Africa. They characterized the UPDF’s deployment to South Sudan as a “necessary peace enforcement intervention” aimed at safeguarding lives, restoring order, and mitigating further conflict.
The Caucus also expressed support for securing “Parliamentary approval” for the deployment in compliance with constitutional mandates. The Chief Whip and NRM Chairperson, Obua Denis Hamson, formally signed the resolution. This action was taken shortly after General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s army chief, confirmed that Ugandan Special Forces are already present in Juba for securing the city.
Accompanying this endorsement, Gen. Kainerugaba asserted on X (formerly Twitter) that the UPDF only acknowledges H.E. Salva Kiir as South Sudan’s President, equating opposition to Kiir as a direct threat to Uganda. This follows violent incidents such as the recent attack on a UN helicopter in Nasir, which resulted in fatalities and raised international concerns regarding South Sudan’s security.
The NRM’s decision underscores Uganda’s intention to support Kiir’s government, especially as opposition forces, including those aligned with Riek Machar’s SPLA-IO, reportedly bolster the White Army’s aggression. Uganda’s military initiative marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing crisis, indicating regional endorsement of Kiir, which could escalate tensions with other regional stakeholders.
In summary, the NRM Parliamentary Caucus’ approval of the UPDF deployment highlights Uganda’s commitment to supporting South Sudan amidst increasing instability. This military intervention is deemed essential for peace, yet it raises potential regional tensions. As Uganda solidifies its role in South Sudan’s security framework, the implications of this engagement will be closely observed by both domestic and international actors.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
