South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Awan Achiek
South Sudan and Uganda have formed a 14-member joint investigation committee to resolve the border dispute along Kajo-Keji County.
The committee, composed of 14 members, was established following clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), which resulted in the deaths of eight soldiers.
The fighting, which began on 28 July, erupted after the UPDF allegedly crossed into South Sudan’s territory in Nyainga-Muda village, Kangapo Two Payam, Kajo-Keji County.
The UPDF was accused of attacking a SSPDF outpost, leading to the deaths of several soldiers and causing mass displacement.
Major General Lul Ruai Koang, SSPDF Spokesperson, said that the committee, with equal representation from both countries, will be temporarily based in Gulu, Uganda.
“The duo agreed on the immediate formation of a 14-man joint investigation committee with equal representation from both armies,” Ruai said in a statement issued over the weekned.
This agreement was reached during a meeting held in Juba on Saturday between Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence of the UPDF, and Gen. Dau Aturjong Nyuol, the Chief of Defence Forces of the SSPDF.
Gen. Muhoozi, the son of President Yoweri Museveni, made a one-day working visit to Juba on Saturday.
During this visit, he met with President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Vice President for Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, following his meeting with the SSPDF army chief.
“The temporary headquarters of the committee will be based in Gulu, Uganda, and the body will commence its investigative work on the exact causes of the clashes in Kajo-Keji County, Central Equatoria State,” said Ruai.
He stated that the committee is tasked with coming up with recommendations aimed at assisting the two principals in making informed decisions on the implementation of the best solutions to end recurrent border disputes.
He added that the two army chiefs ordered an immediate de-escalation of violence along the common border.
“Both leaders reiterated their unwavering commitment to maintaining our long-standing bilateral ties in areas of mutual interest and trust,” he said.
