South Sudan has enacted a block on social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok due to escalating violence stemming from protests in Juba. This measure is in response to disturbances linked to fatal clashes in Sudan, with a directive from the National Communication Authority imposing the suspension for up to 90 days. President Kiir has instituted a nighttime curfew as the government seeks to restore order.
In a significant measure, South Sudan’s government has mandated internet providers to restrict access to prominent social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok. This decision follows violent protests that erupted in the capital, Juba, in reaction to reports concerning the fatalities of 29 South Sudanese individuals amid clashes in Sudan. The escalation of unrest included acts of looting against Sudanese-owned businesses.
The National Communication Authority (NCA) ordered telecommunications companies to block social media access commencing at midnight on January 22, 2025, for a maximum duration of 90 days. NCA Director-General Napoleon Adok Gai justified this action by citing the alarming “unprecedented levels of extreme violence” that were depicted in videos shared online, which could compromise public safety and mental health.
The protests intensified following police intervention when law enforcement fired upon demonstrators, provoked by the disturbing videos circulating from Sudan. South Sudan’s ongoing instability, exacerbated by challenges since its independence in 2011, contributed to rising tensions within the nation. In light of the unrest, President Salva Kiir has called for calm and implemented a nighttime curfew.
Telecommunications companies, including MTN South Sudan, Zain, and Digitel, have confirmed their compliance with the government directive to suspend access to Facebook and TikTok, including their associated messaging applications. This suspension measures follows the declaration of the curfew in an effort to maintain order as tensions begin to ease, amidst the backdrop of heightened instability in the neighboring Sudan.
The recent unrest in South Sudan has emerged against a backdrop of political and economic turmoil since the country’s independence in 2011. Tensions escalated further following tragic events in Sudan, where violent episodes have impacted citizens across the border, leading to significant unrest in Juba. The South Sudanese government has taken drastic measures in response to the protests in order to mitigate violence and restore stability.
In summary, South Sudan’s decision to block social media is a direct response to recent violent protests ignited by events in Sudan. The government has prioritized public safety amid extreme violence, with a 90-day restriction on social media access intended to prevent further unrest. With a nighttime curfew in effect, the government continues to seek a return to calm in the region.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
