By Cathy Mirembe
The Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has categorically denied allegations of using chemical and barrel weapons in South Sudan. These allegations, which have been circulating on social media, have been dismissed as “unsubstantiated” and “misleading” by Col. Chris Magezi, the acting deputy spokesperson of the UPDF.
The UPDF has emphasized that it does not possess chemical weapons or barrel bombs and does not operate systems designed to deliver them. The force has reiterated its commitment to precision strikes, isolating and destroying only military targets while taking great care to avoid civilian casualties.
The allegations surfaced following reports from organizations such as World Without War, which condemned airstrikes in Nasir, South Sudan, and suggested that chemical incendiary weapons had been used. However, the UPDF has attributed these allegations to propaganda efforts by Dr. Riek Machar and his allies.
It is essential to note that the UPDF has a reputation for being a professional and disciplined force. The force has been involved in various peacekeeping missions in the region, including the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
The allegations against the UPDF are baseless and lack concrete evidence. The UPDF’s commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and its reputation as a professional force make these allegations highly unlikely. It is crucial to rely on credible sources of information and to avoid spreading unsubstantiated claims that can cause harm to individuals and organizations.
