The Niger Republic junta mandates that social media groups with at least 50 members register with the government. This move is intended to limit free speech and regulate online activities purportedly used for cyber warfare. Minister Sidi Mohamed Raliou highlighted that registration also serves fiscal purposes related to e-commerce.
The junta government of Niger Republic has initiated a controversial policy requiring social media groups with a minimum of 50 members to obtain a government license to operate. This directive is perceived as an effort to limit free speech and regulate digital communication within the country. Minister of Communication, Posts and Digital Economy, Sidi Mohamed Raliou, announced this mandate on Monday, emphasizing the necessity for registration to ensure compliance with government regulations.
According to Minister Raliou, the government is responding to concerns that social media platforms are being utilized to conduct cyber warfare against the ruling junta. He articulated that social media provides a vital avenue for individuals, enabling them to engage in e-commerce activities both locally and globally. Hence, the registration requirement serves a dual purpose: to monitor usage and facilitate tax collection from online business operations.
In summary, the Niger Republic junta’s new regulation mandates that social media groups with 50 or more members must register with a government agency, raising concerns about free speech. This measure, justified by the government as a way to combat cyber threats and regulate commerce, has drawn criticism for its implications on personal liberties and digital communication.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
