Museveni Visits Juba in Urgent Diplomatic Push to Contain South Sudan Crisis

In a high-stakes diplomatic intervention, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni arrived in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, on Friday in a bid to de-escalate growing political tensions following the reported house arrest of Vice President Riek Machar.

Museveni was received at Juba International Airport by South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit. This marks his first visit to the country in over three years, and it comes amid fears that the fragile peace in South Sudan could unravel, reigniting the devastating civil war that plagued the country from 2013 to 2018.

The visit follows recent clashes in Upper Nile State between government forces and Nuer-affiliated militias. Uganda has reportedly offered military support to President Kiir’s government during these confrontations, raising the stakes of regional involvement.

During his visit, President Museveni emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting regional stability, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.

President Kiir accused his deputy, Riek Machar, of “inciting unrest and fueling division,” referencing alleged coup attempts. Analysts believe these moves may be aimed at further sidelining Machar and consolidating Kiir’s grip on power ahead of the country’s delayed elections.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has voiced serious concerns about the potential for renewed ethnic conflict, as inflammatory rhetoric and military mobilizations increase on both sides.

Museveni’s visit is seen as a critical moment in the region’s diplomatic landscape, with hopes that his influence could help restore dialogue and prevent South Sudan from sliding back into violent conflict. As tensions remain high, the international community is closely watching the outcome of this high-level meeting.