By KT Reporter
The Uganda Police Force (UPF) has resolved to deploy 20 officers to the South Sudan peacekeeping mission under the United Nations arrangement. The officers, who began a five-day pre-deployment training today at the Kikandwa Police ICT Research and Innovation Centre in Wakiso District, will form part of Uganda’s continued contribution to international peace and security.
Polly Namaye, the head of Peace Support Operations in the UPF, urged the officers to uphold professionalism and discipline while on mission, stressing that their conduct will reflect not only on the police force but also on the country. “I urge you to exhibit professionalism and discipline when executing your duties on the mission. Adopt the spirit of unity and teamwork to ensure successful operations,” Namaye said.
South Sudan remains in crisis after President Salva Kiir fell out with his First Vice President, Riek Machar, about seven months ago. Machar has been under house arrest since February this year, accused of plotting to overthrow Kiir’s government. Following a request from Kiir in March, Uganda deployed troops to South Sudan amid fears that Machar’s loyalists were preparing to topple his regime.
Tensions escalated further last week after Kiir’s government began trying Machar for treason and murder, raising fears the country could slide back into full-scale civil war. South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has struggled with leadership wrangles since its independence 14 years ago. Ugandan troops under Col. Bernard Kashemeza, the battle group commander, remain on high alert and are undergoing refresher training in anticipation of renewed conflict between forces loyal to Kiir and Machar.
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