The South Sudanese government has ordered a 30-day ban on social media to prevent the spread of graphic content related to violence against its citizens in Sudan. The National Communication Authority cited public safety concerns following footage of killings in Sudan. This measure may be extended to 90 days amid ongoing conflict and civil unrest.
The South Sudanese government has mandated that telecom companies suspend access to social media for a minimum of 30 days. This directive was issued amidst rising concerns regarding the graphic content shared related to violence against South Sudanese nationals in neighboring Sudan. The National Communication Authority (NCA) emphasized that this action is essential to safeguard public safety and mental health, as the shared content breaches local laws.
The temporary social media ban, which may extend up to 90 days, will be effective from midnight Thursday, based on the NCA’s instructions. “This directive may be lifted as soon as the situation is contained,” stated the authority. The order arises from anger among South Sudanese citizens over distressing footage allegedly depicting militia killings in the Gezira state of Sudan.
Following a sequence of retaliatory violence, South Sudanese authorities have implemented a nighttime curfew starting January 17. This was in response to incidents where businesses owned by Sudanese traders faced looting. Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the African Union Commission, strongly condemned the violent acts against South Sudanese, calling for restraint during these trying times.
Sudan’s ongoing civil war has led to severe humanitarian crises, including widespread famine and displacement. The conflict escalated in April 2023 when fighting erupted between factions led by rival military leaders in Khartoum, subsequently spreading across the region. Reports from the U.N. and human rights organizations highlight grave violations, including ethnically targeted killings and sexual violence perpetrated against civilians.
The South Sudanese government has become increasingly concerned about the impact of graphic violence reported from neighboring Sudan on its citizens. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has primarily erupted due to power struggles between military factions, leading to alarming humanitarian crises. The rise in violence, particularly against South Sudanese nationals, has prompted authorities to take severe measures to maintain public order and safety within their borders.
The decision by South Sudanese authorities to temporarily ban social media aims to mitigate the psychological and societal impact of violent content circulating among the populace. By limiting access to graphic material, the government seeks to protect its citizens from the distress caused by the violence in Sudan. As regional tensions continue, it remains crucial for global organizations to monitor the situation to prevent further atrocities.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
