Land Forces Commander Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga has warned Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) heading to South Sudan not to engage in acts that will embarrass and taint the reputation of the country’s military.
Lt Gen Muhanga, who was on Thursday briefing soldiers heading to South Sudan to join their colleagues who arrived earlier, said they are going there to protect the government of President Salva Kiir under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya.
“My request to you is that you must uphold discipline and professionalism as you prepare for deployment to South Sudan under Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya. We do not expect you to engage in any acts outside the mission,” Lt Gen Muhanga said.
UPDF hastily deployed in South Sudan barely a fortnight ago after it emerged that soldiers loyal to Kiir’s First Vice President Riek Machar had orchestrated a move to overthrow the former, a situation that resulted in a fire exchange.
The new fights are contrary to a power-sharing agreement signed in 2018 where Kiir and Machar factions had to be incorporated into the government and key sectors including national force command positions. However, Kiir and Machar have gradually developed disagreements which have threatened the existence of the former government.
Lt Gen Muhanga informed the soldiers that their deployment follows a request by the South Sudanese President Salva Kiir to the Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, seeking urgent support in stabilising the country after renewed conflict broke out.
Operation Mlinzi wa Kimya is being commanded by Brig Gen Anthony Lukwago Mbuusi, who also reminded the troops that their sole mission in South Sudan is to maintain peace and security in the country.
Lt Gen Muhanga and Brig Gen Mbuusi emphasised that their conduct should reflect the values of the UPDF. The troops are expected to reinforce peacekeeping efforts and prevent further escalation of violence in the country.
UPDF deployment in South Sudan was announced via X by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who shared a video of Special Forces Command (SFC) combatants arriving in the fragile country.