South Sudan has suspended access to social media for at least 30 days due to riots sparked by videos of killings in Sudan. Major providers confirmed restrictions on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. Violence in response to these events resulted in 16 deaths in Juba, with looting targeting Sudanese-owned properties. Calls for peaceful resolution highlight the need for dialogue amid tensions.
Authorities in South Sudan have announced a suspension of social media access for at least 30 days, following violent riots triggered by distressing videos of South Sudanese nationals allegedly killed in Sudan’s El Gezira state. This decision was made to mitigate the unrest that arose from the dissemination of these videos on various social media platforms, which included instances of deadly revenge attacks.
Napoleon Adok, the director general of the National Communications Authority, communicated this decision through a letter to internet service providers. He indicated that the social media blockade was necessitated by the exposure of South Sudan’s populace to extreme violence depicted online amid the recent chaos in Sudan. Major mobile service providers like MTN South Sudan and Zain have confirmed the unavailability of platforms such as Facebook and TikTok for up to 90 days.
Reports from Juba noted the immediate effects of the social media suspension, with users unable to access Instagram. Amid the unrest linked to the killings in El Gezira, over 16 Sudanese nationals were reportedly killed in riots throughout South Sudan’s capital and other regions. Prominent violence included looting and vandalism targeting Sudanese-owned businesses and the destruction of properties, perceived as repercussions related to the alleged involvement of Sudan’s military.
The Sudanese military condemned the violence, labeling it as ‘individual violations.’ South Sudanese musician Isaac Anthony Lumori has publicly voiced his concerns regarding the social media restrictions, emphasizing the need for peaceful negotiations with the Sudanese government to prevent further casualties and promote stability.
The decision to suspend social media arises from alarming events in El Gezira state, Sudan, where videos circulating online have purportedly shown the killings of South Sudanese nationals. The public exposure to these videos ignited riots within South Sudan, provoking violent responses and calls for vengeance against Sudanese nationals residing within the country. The broader context involves ongoing tensions between South Sudan and Sudan, underscoring the sensitivity of political and social relations in the region.
In conclusion, South Sudan’s government has implemented a temporary social media suspension to address the violence fueled by distressing online content. The decision reflects an effort to manage unrest following the El Gezira state killings of South Sudanese nationals. Authorities and local leaders continue to call for peaceful engagements to reach resolutions and prevent further loss of life, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in the face of social unrest.
Original Source: www.inkl.com
