
South Sudanese authorities have announced a temporary restriction on social media access for a minimum of 30 days, citing concerns about the spread of disturbing content linked to the ongoing violence against South Sudanese individuals in neighboring Sudan.
The decision, announced on Wednesday, has sparked a mixture of concern and support as the government aims to safeguard public order and prevent the circulation of harmful material.
The measure, which took effect at midnight Thursday, will limit access to social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp, for all telecommunications users in the country. The restriction is initially set for 30 days but could be extended up to 90 days, depending on the situation and ongoing security assessments.
The National Communication Authority (NCA), the government body overseeing telecommunications, issued a directive to all telecom providers instructing them to enforce the restriction. The NCA stated that the action was necessary to ensure public safety, particularly in light of sensitive and violent images and videos circulating online in connection with the violence in Sudan.
“Social media has become a vehicle for distressing and harmful content, which has the potential to exacerbate tensions and unrest within our borders,” said Josephine Wani, spokesperson for the NCA.
“We are taking this step in the interest of national security and the well-being of our citizens.”
The violence in Sudan, which has been ongoing for several months, has led to widespread displacement and tragic losses for many South Sudanese nationals. Social media has served as a platform for both information sharing and the spread of graphic images and videos that have heightened fear and anxiety in the region.
However, the move to restrict social media has raised concerns among South Sudanese citizens, some of whom argue that access to information is crucial, especially during a time of conflict and uncertainty. Human rights groups have also expressed concern that such restrictions could limit freedom of expression and hinder communication within the country.
“While we understand the government’s concern about the spread of violent content, limiting access to social media impacts people’s ability to communicate, especially in times of crisis,” said Ajak Wek, a local human rights advocate.
“It is essential to find a balance between national security and safeguarding basic freedoms.”
The South Sudanese government has assured the public that the restriction will be monitored and reassessed, with a commitment to lifting the limitations as soon as the situation improves. In the meantime, authorities are encouraging citizens to rely on official sources of information, including government updates and news outlets, to stay informed about developments both in South Sudan and Sudan.
As the situation unfolds, many in South Sudan are left grappling with the delicate balance between protecting public order and upholding access to free communication, as the country navigates its own challenges amid regional instability.
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