Uganda’s President Museveni Arrives in South Sudan Amid Growing Political Tensions

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni arrived in South Sudan on Thursday, embarking on an urgent diplomatic mission following a political crisis that has raised fears of a renewed civil war in the country.

Upon his arrival at Juba International Airport, President Museveni was welcomed by South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir. The visit comes at a time when South Sudan is facing heightened tensions after First Vice President Riek Machar was placed under house arrest by Kiir’s administration, accusing him of inciting rebellion. The ongoing political standoff between Kiir and Machar, who led opposing factions in the devastating 2013-2018 civil war, has prompted international concern.

While Museveni did not explicitly address the crisis during his public remarks at the airport, he emphasized the purpose of his visit as one aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and improving cooperation between Uganda and South Sudan. President Kiir, in his statement, confirmed that the two leaders would discuss the current political developments in South Sudan.

This visit follows a series of mediation efforts by the African Union and an East African regional body to de-escalate the situation. Last month, Uganda’s military was deployed to South Sudan to assist in securing the capital, Juba, after clashes erupted between South Sudan’s military forces and an ethnic militia in the northeast region of Upper Nile state.

The ongoing tensions are particularly alarming, as Machar’s forces, mostly composed of the Nuer ethnic group, had allied with the White Army militia during the civil war. Uganda had previously supported Kiir’s forces, but now, Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is also Museveni’s son, has ordered Ugandan troops to cease attacking the White Army, provided they halt their offensive against Ugandan forces.

The political crisis in South Sudan, coupled with Uganda’s military involvement, has drawn attention to the risk of ethnic conflicts reigniting in the young nation. The United Nations has warned that the situation could spiral into a full-scale civil war if not addressed swiftly. Critics, including Machar’s party, have denounced Uganda’s intervention as a violation of South Sudan’s arms embargo, further complicating the situation.

Analysts suggest that Kiir, now 73, may be attempting to solidify his political control amidst growing unrest within his own camp and questions surrounding his succession plans. The crisis remains fluid, with the international community watching closely for any developments.