Uganda’s NRM Caucus has approved the UPDF’s deployment to South Sudan following a plea from President Salva Kiir amidst rising violence. The intervention aims to maintain stability and aligns with constitutional mandates. The resolution emphasizes Uganda’s historical role in regional stability, while potential regional tensions remain a concern.
On March 14, 2025, Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus officially endorsed the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan. This decision reinforces President Museveni’s commitment to intervene amid a rising crisis in the region, following an urgent request from South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir for military assistance.
The NRM Caucus asserted that the military intervention is consistent with both the Ugandan Constitution and the UPDF Act. Acknowledging Uganda’s historical contributions to regional stability, the Caucus described the deployment as a “necessary peace enforcement intervention” intended to safeguard lives and restore stability while preventing further conflict escalation.
Additionally, the Caucus proposed obtaining “Parliamentary approval” for the deployment as a constitutional requirement, underscoring the formalization of this military action. The resolutions were signed by Government Chief Whip and NRM Caucus Chairperson, Obua Denis Hamson (MP). This development coincides with the recent confirmation of Ugandan Special Forces’ presence in Juba by army chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, emphasizing Uganda’s loyalty to President Kiir.
Amid escalating violence in South Sudan, particularly the lethal attack on a UN helicopter in Nasir on March 4, 2025, there are rising concerns about the security situation. The incidents, which resulted in casualties including a UN crew member, intensified scrutiny on the fragile peace dynamics within the country. Uganda’s military intervention comes at a critical juncture, as opposition forces, including Riek Machar’s SPLA-IO, are implicated in supporting aggressive actions by the White Army.
As Uganda escalates its military involvement, this intervention signals clear regional support for Kiir’s administration against oppositional factions. However, it may also provoke heightened tensions with other regional entities that may perceive Uganda’s actions with suspicion, potentially complicating the already fragile political environment in South Sudan. The NRM’s resolution effectively sets the groundwork for securing parliamentary endorsement, solidifying Uganda’s commitment to South Sudan’s security landscape.
In conclusion, the endorsement by Uganda’s NRM Caucus for the UPDF’s deployment underscores a critical intervention aimed at stabilizing South Sudan amidst escalating violence and instability. This military action, driven by the request from President Kiir, highlights Uganda’s ongoing role in the region’s security framework. However, it poses potential risks of increased tensions with other entities in the region, indicating the complexities involved in the response to South Sudan’s crisis.
Original Source: chimpreports.com