UPDF officially seen off

The Government of South Sudan (GoSS) has formally bid farewell to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces which marks the official end of operations by Uganda’s military in South Sudan.

This has been at a send-off ceremony in South Sudan.

The South Sudan Minister of Defence, Hon. Gen Kuol Manyang Juuk, on behalf of the GoSS, thanked the UPDF for averting a would-be genocide in South Sudan and preventing massive destruction in Juba and other places. He noted that the UPDF restored relative peace and security in the last 22 months, which has enabled uninterrupted resumption of humanitarian operations, socio-economic activities to take place and ensured the return of Internally displaced people to their homes.

He further added that UPDF intervention in the South Sudan crisis was very appropriate and a gesture of true brotherhood and bilateral cooperation between Uganda and South Sudan.

“We thank Uganda for the support given to South Sudan, at a critical time of need, regardless of the criticism from the region and the international community.” Gen Kuol said adding that Uganda supported the GoSS without being compensated, as a gesture of regional solidarity. “The GoSS did not pay Uganda in this operation, because the UPDF is not a mercenary force.” he said.

The Defence Minister presented souvenirs, on behalf of the GoSS/SPLA, to the UPDF in “recognition of the sacrifices made by the gallant UPDF troops while restoring peace in South Sudan.”

Minister for National Security of South Sudan, Gen Mamur Obuto Mete said UPDF’s quick response not only averted genocide but also ensured no spillover effects of the chaos to the neighbouring Countries. ”

The commander of the UPDF withdrawing force, Brig Muhanga Kayanja thanked the GoSS for all the support rendered to UPDF for the last 22 months in the theatre and appreciated the hospitality accorded to the Ugandans doing business in South Sudan.That Uganda and South Sudan was dependent on each other in terms of trade and security.

Brig Kayanja said it was pleasing to note that, “for the 22 months of operation in South Sudan, the UPDF was never reported or involved in conflict with any civilian community and the friendly forces. This is attributed to UPDF professionalism and discipline.”

By Joshua Mutale