Uganda’s Parliament Approves UPDF Deployment to South Sudan
The Ugandan Parliament has authorized the deployment of the UPDF to South Sudan, which was initially undertaken without legislative approval. This decision aims to stabilize the security situation in South Sudan and is rooted in defense agreements between the two countries.
On Thursday, the Parliament of Uganda approved the deployment of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan, which had earlier occurred without legislative authorization. The ongoing instability in South Sudan raises concerns, especially following recent arrests of key political figures, which violated the Revitalized Agreement on Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
The tensions in South Sudan have escalated due to clashes between government forces and militias. This unrest can be traced back to a political fallout in 2013, igniting a civil war between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. In response to the deteriorating situation, Uganda sent troops to Juba without Parliament’s consent a few weeks ago.
Defense Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth, while proposing Parliament’s approval, stated that the deployment aligns with existing defense agreements between Uganda and South Sudan. He referenced Section 49 of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces Act, emphasizing that military deployments require official agreements with host countries.
Oboth highlighted past agreements regarding defense cooperation, dating back to January 10, 2014, which permitted the UPDF’s operations in South Sudan. He warned that the current security developments could pose significant risks to Uganda, potentially destabilizing the region.
On March 10, 2025, President Salva Kiir requested urgent military assistance from President Yoweri Museveni to manage the security crisis. Oboth communicated that this request justified the military deployment under constitutional and legal provisions.
The Minister appealed to Parliament to view the UPDF’s involvement as a commitment to the stability of not just Uganda but the wider African region. He emphasized the historical ties and reciprocal support between Uganda and South Sudan as contributing factors in the decision.
Previous UPDF deployments have helped stabilize regions afflicted by conflict. Oboth reiterated that the UPDF’s presence would protect lives and prevent escalation of violence in South Sudan. Gilbert Oulanya, a Kilak South lawmaker, echoed support for the deployment, asserting that peace in South Sudan directly benefits Uganda.
The Ugandan Parliament sanctioned the deployment of the UPDF to South Sudan, amid growing regional instability. This decision aligns with national defense agreements and counters potential security threats that could destabilize Uganda and its neighbors. Parliamentary support signals solidarity in addressing regional conflicts.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
