Members of Parliament from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) have formally endorsed the deployment of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to South Sudan. The decision was announced by the Government Chief Whip, Denis Hamson Obua, following a Caucus meeting held at State House Entebbe on Friday.
“We, the members of the NRM Parliamentary Caucus, affirm that the deployment of the UPDF is in line with Uganda’s Constitution and the UPDF Act,” Obua stated while addressing journalists at Parliament.
According to Obua, the deployment serves as a necessary intervention for peace enforcement, aimed at protecting lives, restoring stability, and preventing the further escalation of conflict in Uganda’s northern neighbor. The move aligns with Uganda’s historical commitment to Pan-Africanism and regional stability.
“We recognize Uganda’s longstanding commitment to patriotism, nationalism, and Pan-Africanism in the pursuit of national security and regional stability,” Obua emphasized.
Background and Justification
The endorsement follows an appeal by South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir, who requested military assistance from Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni, in response to the outbreak of conflict in South Sudan. Obua highlighted that Uganda has historically played a strategic role in protecting lives and property both domestically and across Africa through military interventions.
“We acknowledge Uganda’s longstanding role in safeguarding the lives and property of Ugandans and Africans at large through strategic military interventions in various countries across the continent,” he noted.
The deployment is also viewed as an act of brotherhood and solidarity with South Sudan, reinforcing security interests for both nations and promoting economic stability in the region.
Legislative Considerations
Obua addressed concerns regarding the legal procedures for troop deployment, clarifying that prior parliamentary approval is required for peacekeeping missions. However, in this case, the deployment is categorized as peace enforcement, which, according to Uganda’s legal framework, does not require prior parliamentary authorization.
“In our resolution, it is crystal clear that the deployment isn’t for peacekeeping, but for peace enforcement. The clarity of the law is that for peacekeeping, you need prior parliamentary approval. However, for peace enforcement, as is the case with our recent deployment to South Sudan, you can deploy and then seek parliamentary approval retrospectively,” Obua explained.
The Government Chief Whip was accompanied by executive members of the Caucus, including General Secretary Hon. Lillian Aber, who also serves as the State Minister for Disaster, Treasurer Hon. Nakut Faith, and Publicity Secretary Hon. Brandon Kintu.