South Sudan has confirmed the deployment of Ugandan military forces, reversing an earlier denial. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth cited a security pact that addresses threats from groups like the LRA. He also discussed the recent IGAD resolution on political detainees and issued warnings to the White Army in Nasir County amid ongoing instability in the nation.
On Monday, the South Sudanese government acknowledged the deployment of Ugandan military forces, reversing a prior denial. Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth stated that the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are engaged in operations under a military agreement aimed at addressing security threats, particularly those posed by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). This development follows Uganda’s public confirmation of its military presence in Juba intended to protect President Salva Kiir amidst escalating insecurity.
The presence of UPDF forces recalls Uganda’s controversial military involvement during South Sudan’s internal conflict from 2013 to 2016, an intervention that garnered international attention. “This is not a secret. It happens all over the world,” Makuei remarked, equating it with previous U.S. military actions in Uganda. He clarified that UPDF units are assisting their South Sudanese counterparts, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
Makuei underscored the importance of the bilateral security pact, stating it serves to ensure mutual defense of the nation’s people, government, and territorial integrity. He dismissed criticisms against the deployment as unwarranted. Additionally, Makuei addressed the recent call from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) for the release of detained political allies of Vice President Riek Machar, conditional upon the absence of evidence.
He asserted that any officials stripped of immunity would be scrutinized for alleged plans to overthrow the government, promising that only innocent individuals would be released. Separately, Makuei issued a warning to the White Army militia linked with Machar’s Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition, demanding their evacuation from Nasir County or facing military consequences. The group has been accused of contributing to instability in Upper Nile State since the 1990s.
“Any civilian in a military zone refusing to leave will be treated accordingly,” Makuei stated, confirming government airstrikes but denying civilian targeting. He affirmed that the operations are directed at armed elements, with risks posed to those identified with militant factions. The White Army has yet to issue a response to these developments, as South Sudan continues to navigate the challenges posed by its fragile peace agreement established in 2018.
In summary, the South Sudanese government has confirmed the deployment of Ugandan military forces, a reversal of its previous stance, citing shared security interests. This acknowledgment, along with discussions surrounding political detainees and warnings to militias, highlights the ongoing instability within South Sudan. The bilateral security pact between Uganda and South Sudan plays a crucial role in the current military dynamics, as the nation grapples with the repercussions of its fragile peace deal.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
