Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has demanded that Parliament compel the government to disclose Uganda’s military activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Sudan, warning that lawmakers are being kept in the dark.
Speaking in Parliament, the outspoken legislator criticized the lack of official updates on Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) operations, forcing MPs to rely on media reports—some of which allege grave violations, including the use of chemical weapons.
“We Can’t Depend on Media for War Updates”
Ssemujju, a member of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), stressed that Uganda’s involvement in two foreign conflicts requires parliamentary oversight.
“Our army is executing two wars—in DR Congo and South Sudan—yet reports continue to flood the media without official clarification,” he said. “We need a government briefing. Parliament cannot function on rumors.”
His call comes amid explosive allegations from the NGO World Without War, which claims the UPDF used ethyl acetate—a flammable industrial chemical—in airstrikes on Nasir, South Sudan, on March 24th. Witnesses reported civilian areas engulfed in fire, raising concerns over potential war crimes.
“This is not just an escalation—it’s a potential war crime,” said Edward H. Carpenter, the group’s director. “Uganda’s actions could derail UN and IGAD peace efforts.”
Unapproved Deployments & Constitutional Concerns
The UPDF’s presence in South Sudan—reportedly deployed without parliamentary approval—mirrors its controversial 2022 incursion into the DRC.
Critics argue such unilateral decisions undermine democratic oversight and risk entangling Uganda in prolonged conflicts.
The situation worsened after South Sudan’s First Vice President, Riek Machar, petitioned the UN to force a Ugandan withdrawal—only to be placed under house arrest in Juba days later.
Election Violence & Military Impunity
Meanwhile, fresh scrutiny surrounds the UPDF following brutal crackdowns during the Kawempe North by-election, where soldiers assaulted journalists and opposition supporters.
Lwemiyaga County MP Theodore Ssekikubo questioned whether rogue soldiers were operating outside command.
Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding admitted “operational mistakes” but denied systemic abuse.
“Some personnel acted beyond doctrine. Investigations are ongoing, and arrests have been made,” he said.
Media Blackout & Press Freedom Fears
Following the violence, several Ugandan media outlets self-censored military and police coverage, citing safety concerns.
This silence, paired with Parliament’s exclusion from war decisions, fuels fears of eroding accountability.
