Central Equatoria Leaders Demand Withdrawal of Ugandan Troops from Kajo-Keji

(KAJO-KEJI COUNTY) – The Central Equatoria State Security Committee has called for the immediate withdrawal of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) from areas inside Kajo-Keji County, following reports of recent incursions by Ugandan troops into South Sudanese territory.

The appeal was made during a regular security meeting held on Tuesday at Rajaf Payam in Juba County, chaired by Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, Governor of Central Equatoria State.

The meeting focused on cross border security, community safety and the protection of citizens in the southern part of the state.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Hon. Leon Abe Brown, the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agencies, said the state government is working closely with border communities, traditional leaders, and the Kajo-Keji County Commissioner.

He added that national institutions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation have also been engaged to resolve the matter peacefully through diplomatic channels.

“The Security Committee is calling upon the UPDF to vacate our territories in Kajo-Keji County and give space to our people during this cultivation season,” Hon. Abe stated. “This will allow displaced residents to return home and rebuild their communities.”

He stressed that no foreign military forces should be present within Central Equatoria State without an approved mandate from the South Sudanese authorities:

“We appeal to our sisterly nation, Uganda, to urgently review this situation and ensure their forces withdraw from our side of the border in line with international norms and respect for sovereignty,” he added.

Reports from local sources suggest that the UPDF recently set up several positions inside South Sudanese territory in Kajo-Keji County. Officials fear that such actions could heighten tensions between communities and worsen the humanitarian conditions in border areas where many families remain displaced.

Hon. Abe said the state remains committed to resolving all cross border matters through mutual understanding, dialogue and respect between the two neighbouring nations.

In another resolution, the Security Committee directed the Mayor of Juba City Council to restructure the quarter council leadership across the city. The Committee recommended that all local chairpersons be democratically elected by their residents to promote transparency, service delivery and accountability at the grassroots level.

The Minister concluded that the overall security situation in Central Equatoria State remains calm, though the government continues to monitor developments in Kajo-Keji and other border areas closely.

Brief summary of the key outcomes from the meeting: