The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) has rejected allegations contained in a report by the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, defending its military operations in South Sudan and describing the findings as incomplete.

In a statement issued this week by the Ministry of defence and veteran affairs/ Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces, Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting director defence public information, said Uganda’s military presence in South Sudan is legitimate and was carried out at the request of the South Sudanese government.

The UPDF added that the deployment was approved by Uganda’s parliament and was intended to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability in the region.

UN Report Raises Concerns

The UN Commission’s report, published in late February, examined the security situation in South Sudan and raised concerns about military operations that allegedly resulted in civilian harm during periods of fighting.

The report is part of ongoing international monitoring of human rights conditions in the country, where political tensions and armed violence have persisted for several years.

UPDF Responds to Allegations

Responding to the report, the UPDF said it has never deliberately targeted civilians and described its role in South Sudan as focused on preventing violence and supporting stability.

According to the military, its presence helped prevent large-scale fighting in the capital Juba and contributed to protecting civilians during periods of unrest.

The statement also referenced threats from armed groups such as the White Army, which has previously been involved in attacks during the conflict.

The UPDF further said media coverage of the report had not fully reflected Uganda’s position, which it said had been communicated to the United Nations.

Background on the UN Commission

The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan is an independent body established by the United Nations Human Rights Council to monitor and report on human rights conditions in South Sudan.

The commission regularly publishes findings and updates on developments related to the country’s political and security situation as part of international oversight efforts.

Uganda’s Role in Regional Security

Uganda has participated in several regional security missions in recent years, including peace support operations in Somalia, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan.

Ugandan authorities say these deployments are aimed at supporting stability and preventing the escalation of violence across the wider East African region.

Calls for Continued Dialogue

Uganda has also reiterated its support for political dialogue among South Sudan’s leaders as part of broader efforts to maintain peace and stability.

The developments highlight ongoing international attention on the security situation in South Sudan and the role regional actors play in addressing the country’s challenges.