By Our Reporter
In a series of strongly worded social media statements, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations and Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has claimed responsibility for the deaths of at least 1,500 members of South Sudan’s White Army, labeling them as “terrorists.”
The White Army, a loosely organized militia primarily composed of Nuer youth, has long been involved in South Sudan’s complex web of ethnic conflict and civil unrest. In his remarks, Gen. Muhoozi did not mince words, declaring, “Whether we go on killing them is up to them. If the White Army surrenders, no one will touch them. If they don’t, they will be exterminated!”
The general’s statements appear to follow recent clashes in Upper Nile State, where he praised the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) for what he called a decisive victory. “After days of fighting and with our close support, our dear brothers in SSPDF have captured Doma in Upper Nile! The White Army is running as fast as it can,” he stated.
While Muhoozi’s exact role in the fighting remains unspecified, his repeated references to “our close support” suggest Ugandan involvement, whether direct or indirect, in the recent military operations.
Escalating Conflict & Regional Tensions
The White Army has historically operated as a decentralized force, often mobilizing to defend Nuer communities or retaliate against perceived threats. Their involvement in the ongoing South Sudanese conflict has been marked by periods of intense violence, including attacks on civilians and other ethnic militias.
Despite the threatening tone, Muhoozi also extended a conditional offer of clemency: “If the White Army surrenders, no one will touch them.” This ultimatum places the militia at a crossroads—either lay down arms or face what he describes as total military defeat.
Meanwhile, the African Union, United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), and IGAD have all previously expressed concern about unchecked military actions and inflammatory rhetoric that could reignite ethnic violence in S.Sudan.
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