South Sudan has implemented a three-month suspension of social media access in response to graphic content related to violence against South Sudanese in Sudan. The National Communication Authority’s directive aims to prevent the spread of distressing media that incites public unrest. Telecom providers have enforced the ban, prompting criticism from citizens and concerns about the impact on businesses relying on social communication.
South Sudan has mandated a temporary suspension of social media access, lasting up to three months, due to concerns regarding the violent content being disseminated about South Sudanese victims in neighboring Sudan. The National Communication Authority (NCA) instructed all internet service providers and telecom companies to enforce this ban, effective from midnight Wednesday. Director General Napoleon Adok Gai stated that social media posts had exposed South Sudanese citizens to extreme violence, particularly targeting refugees in Wad Madani city who faced brutal attacks from the Sudan Armed Forces.
The violent incidents have resulted in the deaths of numerous South Sudanese, including women and children, as depicted in widely circulated videos. This content has sparked public outrage, leading to violent protests across South Sudan, particularly in Juba, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, and Warrap State, where demonstrators targeted and vandalized Sudanese-owned businesses. In response to these events, the NCA emphasized the importance of the ban as a means to maintain public safety and prevent the exacerbation of social tensions.
Telecom operators such as MTN, Zain, and Digitel have complied with the NCA’s directive and informed their subscribers of the suspension of social media services. Critics of the decision argue that this ban violates the rights of citizens, particularly affecting businesses that rely heavily on social media for communication. Yar Mary, an online business owner, expressed frustration, stating that the ban jeopardizes her ability to connect with clients, which could lead to the collapse of her business.
The NCA maintains that the ban will remain in place for at least 30 days but could be lifted depending on the stabilization of the situation. The decision stems from the need to uphold local laws and protect vulnerable populations from the impact of distressing content shared on social media. As South Sudan grapples with the repercussions of violence spilling over from Sudan, the tension between maintaining public safety and upholding citizens’ rights continues to be a pressing issue.
The suspension of social media in South Sudan stems from escalating violence linked to conflicts in neighboring Sudan, which have directly affected South Sudanese nationals. Following attacks on refugees and the subsequent graphic portrayal of these events on social media, South Sudan’s government has taken drastic measures to curb the spread of disturbing content. The ongoing conflict has intensified concerns regarding public safety and mental health, particularly for vulnerable groups within the nation, prompting action from the National Communication Authority to enforce this temporary ban.
In summary, South Sudan’s decision to suspend social media access for three months is primarily motivated by a need to address the violent content related to attacks on South Sudanese citizens in Sudan. While the NCA argues this measure is necessary for public safety, the ban has faced criticism for restricting citizens’ rights and impacting businesses reliant on social media communication. The future of the ban will depend on the stabilization of the situation following violent clashes and public unrest.
Original Source: news.az
