Security before protocol: Understanding the Kamala Incident.
Why are some South Sudanese rebels and opposition sympathizers expressing hostility over the recent presidential security incident in Kampala? And why are they attempting to use the situation for political advantage?
Presidential security personnel operate under a completely different doctrine from ordinary security forces. Their training is built on instinct, rapid threat assessment, and immediate reaction under uncertain circumstances.
Personally, I do not entirely blame Lt. Col. Aloro Bosco for refusing to fully comply with the instructions of his Ugandan counterparts for several reasons.
First, every time President Salva Kiir visits Uganda, many South Sudanese are reminded of the tragic death of Dr. John Garang. To this day, there are citizens who continue to question the circumstances surrounding the Mi-172 helicopter crash and hold suspicions regarding the role of President Yoweri Museveni’s government.
Whether those suspicions are true or not, such historical memories naturally shape the mindset of presidential security officers tasked with protecting a Head of State at all costs. If anything unfortunate were to happen to President Kiir abroad, many believe it would not simply be dismissed as coincidence. That alone explains why Lt. Col. Aloro remained firm in carrying out his duty.
Second, Kampala hosts many politically charged opposition figures and individuals openly hostile toward the South Sudanese leadership. Security officers are trained to anticipate worst-case scenarios at all times. Even a minor breach near the VIP section could potentially become a life-threatening situation within seconds.
Presidential guards are trained differently. Their responsibility is not comfort or diplomacy first — it is protection. They are conditioned to detect threats anywhere, anytime, and neutralize danger immediately when necessary.
For that reason, many believe Lt. Col. Aloro Bosco deserves recognition rather than criticism for standing his ground during a tense security moment. These are difficult and unpredictable times.
At the same time, the conduct of some Ugandan presidential protocol officers raised unnecessary tension. The entire situation appeared avoidable and escalated into drama that did not need to happen.
South Sudanese should approach such incidents with calmness, patriotism, and responsibility instead of exploiting them for political hatred or propaganda.
#JubaWatchDog
#SouthSudan
#SecurityAndStability
#PeaceFirst
