South Sudan Denies Reports of Ugandan Troops in Juba Amid Growing Tensions
In a dramatic turn of events, South Sudan’s government has denied claims that Ugandan troops have been deployed to the capital, Juba. The denial comes just days after Uganda’s military chief, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, stated that soldiers were sent to help secure the city amidst escalating tensions between President Salva Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar.
The Denial
South Sudan’s Information Minister, Michael Makuei, swiftly rejected the reports, telling local media that no Ugandan troops were present in the capital. This denial contrasts with statements made by Gen. Kainerugaba, who took to social media to express Uganda’s commitment to supporting South Sudan in securing its territory, calling Kiir a “brother” to Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni.
“We shall protect the entire territory of South Sudan like it was our own,” Kainerugaba had written, leading many to believe that the Ugandan military was stepping in as a peacekeeping force.
Rising Tensions
The reports come at a time of heightened concern in South Sudan, where tensions between Kiir and Machar are threatening the fragile peace agreement that was put in place after years of civil war. Since 2013, the country has been battling a brutal conflict triggered by a power struggle between the two leaders, resulting in over 400,000 deaths.
Though a power-sharing agreement in 2018 ended active fighting, much of the peace deal remains unfulfilled, including the formation of a unified army and plans for elections. Recently, the South Sudanese military arrested key figures aligned with Machar, sparking further unrest and calls for action from opposition groups.
International Concern
The instability in South Sudan has raised alarm across the globe. The United States recently ordered the evacuation of non-emergency diplomatic staff from the country, citing safety concerns. Last week, clashes erupted between government forces and a militia group known as the White Army in Upper Nile state, further fueling fears that the peace deal could collapse, plunging the nation back into civil war.
The situation is precarious, and with South Sudan’s fragile political landscape, the involvement of external forces like Uganda may signal a new chapter in the country’s already turbulent history.
What’s at Stake?
South Sudan’s future hangs in the balance. With peace so fragile and political tensions so high, the presence of foreign troops – whether confirmed or not – could have serious consequences. As regional and international players weigh in, all eyes are on Juba, hoping for stability but fearing the worst.
The question remains: will the leadership of South Sudan be able to navigate these turbulent waters without outside intervention, or is the involvement of Uganda just the beginning of a more complex international role in the country’s future?
Stay tuned as this developing story unfolds.
