UPDF Dismisses UN Report Alleging Atrocities in South Sudan

Col. Chris Magezi (Photo Credit Chimp Reports)

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has rejected a United Nations report accusing it of committing atrocities during joint military operations in South Sudan.

The report by the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, published on February 27, 2026, alleges that the UPDF supported the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) in conducting deadly airstrikes that killed civilians and destroyed homes in opposition-affiliated areas.

According to the report, the joint operations targeted areas dominated by the Nuer community, which are perceived as rebel strongholds. The Commission claims the aerial bombardments were at levels “unprecedented since pre-independence wars,” withcivilian homes, hospitals, and opposition sites reportedly hit.

One incident cited occurred on March 24, 2025, when SSPDF and Ugandan forces allegedly launched an offensive about 15 kilometers west of the capital, Juba. The strike reportedly targeted a cantonment site occupied by the SPLM/A-IO since 2019, marking what the report describes as the first recorded airstrike against the opposition group in violation of the 2017 ceasefire and the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.

Another attack referenced in the report occurred on May 3, 2025, when helicopters allegedly struck Old Fangak Town, hitting a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) hospital, a market, and public offices. The hospital’s pharmacy and medical supplies were destroyed, while seven people were killed and 27 others injured.

The Commission says the attack triggered mass displacement, with more than 110,000 people fleeing their homes. By the end of the month, displacement in Old Fangak County was estimated at about 50,000 people. The report describes the incident as a gross violation of international law, particularly protections granted to medical facilities.

However, UPDF acting spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi rejected the allegations, insisting that the Ugandan military does not target civilians.

“UPDF has never targeted civilians in its 45-year cherished history. That is why it remains extremely popular with the people wherever it operates,” Magezi said.

The UN report also criticized Uganda’s deployment to South Sudan, arguing that it has regionalized the conflict and increased political and security risks.

But Magezi defended the deployment, saying the Ugandan forces were invited by the South Sudanese government and that the operation was approved by Uganda’s Parliament.

“The current UPDF operation in South Sudan is completely legitimate. UPDF was invited by the sovereign government of the country,” he said.

The Ugandan military has previously conducted operations in several countries including Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan.

Magezi added that UPDF’s presence in South Sudan has helped prevent further fighting in Juba and stopped atrocities allegedly committed by the White Army militia.

Meanwhile, the UN Commission warned that South Sudan’s political and military leaders are undermining the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, increasing the risk of renewed armed conflict and serious human rights violations.

The Commission also found that armed forces under the ruling party command are currently the main perpetrators of attacks against civilians, often linked to ethnicity and perceived political affiliation.

It called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, full implementation of the peace agreement, and adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law.

Source: https://chimpreports.com/updf-dismisses-un-report-alleging-atrocities-in-south-sudan/