Kampala stops issuance of Visa to South Sudan following fresh fighting in Juba

Uganda has suspended issuance of Visa to South Sudan following eruption of fresh fighting in the world’s youngest country.

Heavy shelling and bombardment was reported in the capital of Juba Monday, June 11th morning, just two days after the country marked its fifth Independence Day.

Ugandan army was heavily deployed to guard border points and regulate entry of refugees from the war-torn country as well as stop any movement from either side.

The army said it will not enter South Sudan but is ready to help when called upon to do so.

Reports indicated that heavy explosions were heard from first Vice President Riek Machar’s residence and a section of it was destroyed during the heavy shelling experienced Monday morning.

Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) are said to have been used in the morning clashes that continued up to 1200hrs (EAT).

Machar’s rebel front has accused President Salva Kiir of bleaching the peace deal signed between the two opposing factions, leading to the renewed fighting.

Since the fighting erupted, at least 200 people have been killed, hundreds of thousands others displaced and businesses closed.

On Sunday, Kenya Airways suspended flights to Juba saying that it will resume normal schedule once the fighting stops.

The United Nations has also called for an immediate cessation and urged Kiir and Machar to dialogue on a lasting solution to the perennial civil wars.

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Uganda office has pleaded with Kampala to open its boarders to refugees from Juba.

According to the Sudan Tribune, the clashes erupted following a scuffle between the body guards of the two leaders on Thursday when they (Kiir and Machar) were in a meeting a hotel in Juba.

Kennes Bwire in Kampala contributed to this report