Museveni in Juba for Talks with Kiir as Political Turmoil Grips South Sudan

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni touched down in Juba on Thursday for urgent discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, amid escalating political unrest. The visit, described as a “working trip”, aims to defuse tensions and reinforce bilateral ties as the young nation faces growing instability.

Museveni, who was personally received by Kiir at Juba International Airport, confirmed his arrival on X (formerly Twitter), posting:

“I look forward to our discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation between our two nations.”

President Museveni’s trip comes at a delicate time for South Sudan, following the house arrest of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. His detention has sparked fierce criticism and violent clashes in regions including Rejaf, Wunaliet, and Upper Nile State.

The government alleges that Machar was behind a plot to instigate rebellion, a charge his allies deny. His arrest, however, is being viewed by international actors as a direct threat to the Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018, which Museveni himself helped negotiate.

Regional Concerns Rise Over Museveni in Juba for Talks with Kiir

Diplomatic sources confirm that the United Nations, African Union (AU), and IGAD have all expressed concern. Their joint statements urge the South Sudanese government to respect the peace deal and ensure due process for Machar.

Observers say the focus keyword, Museveni in Juba for Talks with Kiir, reflects the high diplomatic stakes involved. Museveni’s presence in Juba may help avert regional instability—or risk aligning Uganda too closely with one faction.

African Union Panel Denied Access to Machar

A high-level African Union delegation led by former Burundian President Domitien Ndayizeye was denied a meeting with Machar. The meeting, originally scheduled for Friday morning before talks with Kiir in the afternoon, was abruptly cancelled.

“The AU Panel of the Wise requested to meet First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. However, they were informed that no one would be allowed to meet him until investigations are complete and he appears in court,” said a diplomatic source.

Strikingly, no investigation has begun since Machar was detained on March 26, raising concerns about legality and transparency.

UPDF in South Sudan Draws Criticism

Uganda’s Defence Minister Jacob Oboth told Parliament that South Sudan had made an urgent request on March 10 for military assistance. The deployment of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) followed swiftly, officially labeled as a “peace enforcement mission.”

“This move aligns with Uganda’s core values of Pan-Africanism and regional stability,” Oboth stated.

Still, opposition leaders in South Sudan have accused Kampala of interference, questioning Uganda’s neutrality and long-term intentions.

Raila Odinga Denied Access to Machar

Kenya’s special envoy Raila Odinga, who met with President Kiir last week, was also denied a chance to meet with Machar. Odinga claimed that Kiir referred him to Museveni for future mediation—an assertion rejected by Kiir’s spokesperson, David Amuor Majur.

“The Right Honourable Odinga’s trip to Uganda was pre-arranged and not directed by President Kiir,” Majur clarified at a press conference.

This controversy has cast a shadow over Museveni’s involvement, as questions arise about which leader truly holds sway in regional diplomacy.

Peace Agreement in Jeopardy: Museveni in Juba for Talks with Kiir the Last Hope?

The Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018, seen as a blueprint for peace, is now on shaky ground. The detention of Machar, lack of legal procedures, and increased militarization risk plunging South Sudan back into violent conflict.

Museveni’s diplomatic record as a stabilizer in East Africa is now under the spotlight. Many hope his presence in Juba will force Kiir to ease political repression and return to dialogue.