South Sudan has blocked access to social media platforms for up to 90 days in response to violent protests, prompting criticism from the Committee to Protect Journalists. Journalists are resorting to VPNs to report but are unsure of their audience’s access. The government plans a temporary curfew alongside the ban; however, officials have not confirmed when it may be lifted.
South Sudan’s government recently imposed a ban on social media platforms as a response to escalating unrest, leading to widespread criticism from organizations advocating for journalists’ rights. The country’s National Communication Authority instructed internet service providers to block social media access for a minimum of 30 days, aimed at preventing the broadcast of violent footage related to disturbances in the region. This heavy-handed approach has raised serious concerns about press freedom and the public’s ability to access information.
The ban was confirmed through a letter reviewed by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and various media reports. In response to the unrest, including violent protests linked to incidents in neighboring Sudan, the government has also implemented a curfew in Juba. The CPJ has condemned the social media blockade, describing it as an excessive form of censorship that impedes journalistic efforts and deprives citizens of vital news sources.
Journalists in South Sudan, facing challenges under this new directive, are turning to virtual private networks (VPNs) to continue their reporting. However, establishing whether their audience has access to their materials remains a significant concern. Mariak Bol, editor-in-chief of a prominent news site, expressed uncertainty about whether their news updates reach the public as intended.
Further complicating the situation, authorities indicated that the ban might be lifted within 72 hours, although no official confirmation of this timeline has been provided. Attempts by the CPJ to communicate with South Sudan’s information minister and the National Communication Authority for additional clarity have reportedly gone unanswered, heightening the stakes for journalists navigating this restrictive environment.
The recent actions taken by South Sudanese authorities reflect a growing trend of restricting access to social media amidst political unrest. Social media platforms play a crucial role in disseminating information quickly and widely, often serving as a primary news source for many citizens. The government’s blocking of these platforms is perceived as an attempt to control narratives and limit access to information, thus raising alarms regarding freedom of expression and press rights in the country.
The social media ban in South Sudan poses significant obstacles for journalists and undermines the public’s right to information. This decision, condemned by the Committee to Protect Journalists, is viewed as a detrimental measure that inhibits press freedom and restricts the flow of news. The ongoing situation calls for immediate action from authorities to restore access and protect journalistic integrity while ensuring the public can remain informed.
Original Source: punchng.com
