Residents of Juba were gripped by fear and uncertainty on Thursday after a significant deployment of military and security forces appeared across major parts of the city without immediate explanation.
Soldiers and personnel were stationed at key locations, including the Seventh Day Adventist Roundabout, near the University of Juba, along Ministries Road close to parliament, as well as in Amarat and along Airport Road. Witnesses reported seeing armoured vehicles and a noticeably large number of troops, an uncommon sight that quickly unsettled many residents.
The sudden show of force led some businesses to close early, while workers rushed home amid growing unease. Although traffic continued moving, the mood across the city was tense, with many people unsure whether it was safe to continue normal activities.Several residents expressed fear and confusion, saying they had never seen such a heavy deployment in the capital before. Many called on authorities to provide clear information, warning that the lack of communication was fueling rumors and public panic.
Security sources later confirmed that various units—including military intelligence, national security, and police—were involved in the operation, alongside the deployment of heavy equipment. However, details about the purpose remained limited at first.
Civil society representatives also urged the government to address the public promptly, emphasizing that transparency was essential to calm nerves and counter misinformation spreading among residents.
Authorities later sought to reassure the public, stating that the deployment was part of routine preparedness and security activities ahead of the general elections scheduled for December 2026.
Officials stressed that the situation in Juba remained calm and that there was no immediate threat.Despite these assurances, the heavy presence of forces has raised concerns among residents, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing tensions and clashes in other parts of the country, which have already displaced thousands and heightened fears about stability in the lead-up to the elections.Get smarter responses, upload files and images,
