Kampala, Uganda – Friday, March 28, 2025
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has vehemently rejected reports circulating on social media that claim the Ugandan Airforce dropped chemical and barrel bombs on rebel positions in South Sudan's Upper Nile and Jonglei states.
The UPDF, in a statement issued on Friday, dismissed the allegations as "false and misleading," asserting that it neither possesses chemical weapons nor operates any systems capable of delivering them.
“The UPDF does not possess chemical weapons and barrel bombs, nor do we operate the delivery systems required for such weapons,” the statement clarified.
The allegations surfaced on various social media platforms, accusing the Ugandan military of using unconventional weaponry against rebel forces known as the White Army in South Sudan's northern region. These claims have raised concerns among international observers and humanitarian groups, given the long-standing prohibition of chemical weapons under international law.
However, the UPDF reiterated its commitment to conducting operations in line with international military protocols, specifically highlighting that civilian targets are never deliberately targeted.
"Great care is always taken to avoid civilian casualties. The UPDF uses precision strike capabilities to isolate and destroy only military targets," the statement continued.
The UPDF also pointed to what it described as “AI-generated propaganda” against Uganda's military role in South Sudan. The statement accused South Sudanese opposition leader Dr. Riek Machar and his allies of orchestrating misinformation campaigns to tarnish the reputation of the UPDF.
"These unfounded claims are being perpetuated by Dr. Riek Machar and his allies. The public should disregard such false narratives," the UPDF stressed.
Uganda's military involvement in South Sudan has the full authorization and support of the South Sudanese government, according to the statement. The UPDF's primary mission in the region is to assist in stabilizing the conflict-ridden country and to support the South Sudanese government in maintaining peace and security.
The UPDF's denial comes as diplomatic tensions surrounding the conflict in South Sudan continue to rise, with various factions accusing each other of violating international law.
