The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has strongly refuted claims circulating on social media that its Airforce has deployed chemical and barrel weapons against rebel positions in South Sudan’s Upper Nile and Jonglei states.
In a statement issued by UPDF Spokesperson Col Chris Magezi, the army dismissed the allegations as “unsubstantiated and misleading,” asserting that the UPDF does not possess or operate chemical weapons or barrel bombs.
“These allegations are false because the UPDF neither possesses chemical weapons and barrel bombs nor does it operate systems designed to deliver them,” Col Magezi said.
The spokesperson further emphasized that the UPDF strictly adheres to military engagement principles that prohibit attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
“The UPDF does not attack civilians or civilian objects. Great care is always taken to avoid this. The UPDF, using its proven precision strike capabilities, endeavours to isolate and destroy only military targets,” the statement read.
Col Magezi also suggested that the allegations are part of a broader disinformation campaign led by South Sudan’s opposition figures, particularly Dr. Riek Machar and his allies, to undermine Uganda’s military presence in the country.
“It is observed as well that the AI-generated propaganda schemes against the UPDF presence in South Sudan are being perpetuated by Dr. Riek Machar and his allies. The naysayers should be ignored. UPDF involvement in South Sudan is with the full authorisation and support of the South Sudan government,” he stated.
Uganda has maintained a military presence in South Sudan at the request of President Salva Kiir’s administration, supporting efforts to stabilize the conflict-prone country. The latest allegations come amid heightened tensions in the region, where fighting between government forces and rebel groups continues.
