South Sudan’s government has confirmed the deployment of Ugandan military forces, reversing previous denials and citing a security agreement aimed at addressing threats. Information Minister Michael Makuei defended the UPDF’s role, connecting it to historical military operations against the LRA. The government has also addressed internal dissent and warned the White Army militia in Upper Nile State.
On Monday, the government of South Sudan officially acknowledged the deployment of Ugandan military forces within its borders, reversing a prior denial and citing a longstanding security agreement aimed at addressing various threats. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth stated that the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are present under a military pact between Uganda and South Sudan that was originally established to combat the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).
This confirmation followed a series of denials from the South Sudanese government after Uganda’s military had publicly acknowledged its presence in Juba, asserting that the deployment was necessary to protect President Salva Kiir amidst increasing insecurity. The UPDF’s involvement in South Sudan raises concerns, as it recalls Uganda’s controversial military intervention during the conflict from 2013 to 2016, which attracted significant international criticism.
Minister Makuei noted, “This is not a secret. It happens all over the world,” drawing parallels to previous U.S. military operations targeting the LRA in South Sudan’s Western Equatoria region. He emphasized that the UPDF functions as support units working alongside the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF). Furthermore, he defended the military agreement as one that ensures mutual defense of the nation’s people, government, and territorial integrity.
In addition to the military discussions, Makuei addressed the Intergovernmental Authority on Development’s (IGAD) resolution regarding the release of detained allies of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, asserting that if there is no evidence against these individuals, they will be released. He warned, however, that officials stripped of immunity might be investigated for their involvement in alleged attempts to destabilize the government.
Makuei also issued a stern warning to the White Army, a militia associated with Machar’s faction, instructing them to vacate Nasir County in Upper Nile State or face military repercussions. He accused the White Army of contributing to instability in the Upper Nile region since the 1990s. Additionally, he confirmed that government airstrikes were conducted in the area, denying any intention to target civilians while asserting that operations would focus on armed elements only.
The White Army, historically significant in past insurgencies including the 2013 civil war, has not yet commented on these developments. The situation in South Sudan remains precarious, following a fragile peace agreement established in 2018 between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
In conclusion, South Sudan’s government has acknowledged the deployment of Ugandan military forces, citing a security pact intended for mutual defense amid rising threats. Minister Makuei affirmed that the UPDF operations are legitimate and comparable to historical military engagements. The government continues to navigate internal conflict and external military relations, while maintaining a focus on stability in light of the continued tensions within the country and between opposing factions.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
