Why U.S. Wants UPDF Out of Sudan The United States recently demanded that Ugandan troops pull out of South Sudan, where they were deployed in December, to defend President Salva Kiir against rebels. In an email interview with Deo Walusimbi, the US embassy information officer Erin Truhler explains the American position, among other issues. Excerpts: Why is USA leading the push for Ugandas withdrawal from South Sudan? Consistent with the language of the Cessation of Hostilities agreement that both parties signed in January, we are urging the redeployment or phased withdrawal of foreign forces invited by either side. The agreement has paved the way for a viable political process to begin. We recognise the role Ugandan forces had in helping defend critical infrastructure in Juba and on the Juba-Nimule road, but it is time for these forces to begin a phased withdrawal, consistent with the cessation of hostilities agreement and the beginning of a political process. What would you consider the viable alternative to Ugandan presence in South Sudan, to ensure peace after the recent bloody conflict there? We strongly support the vital work of the UN Mission in South Sudan. All parties must cooperate fully with UNMISS and allow it to carry out its mandate without obstruction, especially protection of civilians and facilitation of humanitarian access. What role is the US playing to foster dialogue between the two parties involved in the conflict and ensure a lasting peaceful solution in South Sudan? The United States is working with the other special envoys in Addis Ababa [Ethiopia] to support the immediate setting up of the Joint Technical Committee which will oversee the MVM. Even as we continue to support the implementation of the CoH and the ongoing IGAD talks, we are also actively working to enhance the effectiveness of the UN Mission in South Sudan and support its efforts to protect civilians. Among other things, we are expanding information sharing and working with partners to identify and support the deployment of the additional 5,500 troops authorised by the Security Council. Five US military officers are providing headquarters support to UNMISS [UN mission] in Juba. Do you think Uganda was justified to intervene in South Sudan without an express UN resolution? We recognise the role Ugandan forces had in helping defend critical infrastructure in Juba and on the Juba-Nimule road, but it is time for these forces to begin a phased withdrawal, consistent with the cessation of hostilities agreement. What then do you make of concerns by Uganda that the intervention was meant to stop genocide there? At this time, our concern is primarily focused on ensuring the continued cessation of hostilities and implementation of the agreement. We believe it is critical that all countries in the region play a positive role in pressing the parties to resolve their political disputes peacefully. Give us an update on what you make of Ugandas performance under Amison in Somalia, since 2010. Uganda is a leader of regional efforts to support peace and security, through its pursuit of Lords Resistance Army rebels, commitment to the African Union Mission in Somalia (Amison), and current chairmanship of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR). Ugandas commitment to the LRA and Amison missions are crucial to improving the security environment for millions of Africans, so that democracy and economic growth can take root. At the time (2010) Uganda was adjudged to be under extreme terrorist threat - has this changed in your estimation, or is Uganda now much safer? The US government rates Uganda as a high threat for terrorism. The potential for terrorist activity from extremist organisations such as al-shabab exists in Uganda and the region. US citizens are routinely advised to avoid high-density public gatherings. The July 11, 2010 bombings of a rugby club and Ethiopian restaurant in Kampala resulted in the deaths of 76 people, including one US citizen, with six other US citizens among the injured. US citizens travelling to the Karamoja sub-region in northeastern Uganda should be aware of the ongoing conflict and armed banditry in this region. The US is at the head of calls to continue the fight against corruption in Uganda. What plans do you have to assist Uganda to deal with this problem? Corruption is a serious problem in Uganda that impedes the countrys development, and we continue to urge the government of Uganda to investigate, prosecute, and punish those responsible for it. We are funding programs to increase government accountability and transparency in Uganda. What are your thoughts on the narrowing political space for the opposition in Uganda, ahead of 2016 general elections? The United States works to promote good governance, human rights, and the institutionalisation of multiparty democracy for the people of Uganda. We also work with our Ugandan partners to strengthen regional stability. We emphasise regularly with the Ugandan government the need to strengthen its democratic institutions. The United States is also committed to upholding the rights of free speech and freedom of assembly around the world, both of which are enshrined in the Ugandan constitution. Some time back US sent 100 commandos to assist UPDF in the hunt for Lords Resistance Army [LRA]s Joseph Kony; what is the progress of these operations? With US support, regional forces as part of the African Unions Regional Task Force have made demonstrable progress in weakening and degrading the LRAs capabilities. We believe it is critical that pressure continue to be put on the LRA to prevent it from regrouping. Over the past two years, some of the top LRA commanders have been removed from the battlefield and LRA defections have increased significantly. The LRAs ability to attack civilians and wreak havoc has also been diminished. The United States remains fully committed to supporting regional efforts to end the threat posed by the LRA, and mitigate and respond to the humanitarian consequences of the LRAs atrocities.
Posted on: Fri, 14 Mar 2014 14:34:26 +0000
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