South Sudan has lifted its ban on Facebook and TikTok, originally imposed due to videos showing alleged killings in Sudan. The National Communications Authority confirmed the removal of distressing content, advocating for a balanced approach to online incitement. Additionally, allegations of targeted attacks by the Sudanese army on civilians fueled tensions in the region, necessitating this decision.
South Sudan has lifted its temporary ban on Facebook and TikTok, which was imposed last week after alarming videos surfaced depicting alleged killings of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan. The National Communications Authority confirmed this decision in a letter dated January 27, highlighting that the concerning content, related to violent protests and retaliatory attacks, was subsequently removed from the respective platforms.
Napoleon Adok Gai, the Director of the National Communications Authority, emphasized the situation in his correspondence, stating, “The rise of violence linked to social media content in South Sudan underscores the need for a balanced approach that addresses the root causes of online incitement while protecting the rights of the population.”
This decision comes on the heels of accusations against the Sudanese army and its allies by various human rights groups, who blamed the military for ethnically motivated assaults on civilians in El Gezira, Sudan. This turmoil escalated following the army’s capture of Wad Madani from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, igniting tensions in the region.
In response, the Sudanese army has denounced the incidents as merely “individual violations” that had been widely disseminated across social media platforms, further complicating the narrative surrounding the violence.
The situation in South Sudan has been exacerbated by graphic and disturbing content related to violent protests and attacks that have emerged on social media. This prompted the government to respond with censorship measures including the temporary ban of major platforms. However, following the removal of the inappropriate content, authorities deemed it appropriate to restore access, acknowledging the importance of freedom of expression alongside public safety.
The reinstatement of Facebook and TikTok in South Sudan marks a critical balance between maintaining public safety and preserving the rights of citizens to access social media. The move also reflects a response to regional violence that has affected the population significantly. Authorities continue to urge the need for a comprehensive approach to manage online content that can incite further violence.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
