Uganda Parliament Approves Troop Deployment to Gaza

The motion, presented by Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka, sought legislative consent under the country’s constitution and the UPDF Act so that Ugandan troops could contribute to efforts aimed at restoring calm and supporting humanitarian work in the territory. During a plenary session last Thursday the minister stressed that the mission would adhere strictly to humanitarian principles and international commitments.

Kiwanuka assured lawmakers that the contingent would maintain complete neutrality. “The UPDF contingent will remain neutral, comply with International humanitarian law, protect civilians without taking sides in political disputes, and operate solely under the mandate of the Stabilization Mission,” he stated. Despite eventual approval, several members of parliament voiced strong reservations about the speed of the process and the level of risk assessment that had been conducted before the vote.

Opposition figures argued that the motion had been introduced with insufficient preparation. Chief Opposition Whip Paul Mwiru requested more time for proper consideration, while Joseph Ssewungu declared, “I am not supporting your motion, because it is an ambush on us.” John Baptist Nambeshe supported the principle of peacekeeping but insisted that parliament first receive detailed reports on existing deployments in the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and South Sudan. Patrick Nsamba warned that Gaza’s urban battlefield and frequent strikes made the assignment particularly hazardous and demanded thorough preparation.

Military representatives in the chamber strongly defended the decision. Major General Henry Masiko rejected claims of unpreparedness and told colleagues, “You should be very, very proud as Ugandans that Uganda People’s Defense Forces is viewed as the anchor of stability in a sea of turbulence regionally and now globally.” Major General David Gonyi added that Uganda carried both a moral and diplomatic responsibility to assist civilians seeking a measure of peace in Gaza.

The parliamentary debate reflected a tension between national pride in the UPDF’s growing international role and genuine concerns over operational dangers and procedural fairness. With approval now secured, Uganda joins the ranks of nations preparing to contribute personnel to the proposed stabilisation mission, positioning its forces to operate under a clearly defined humanitarian mandate while navigating the complex realities of the conflict zone.