South Sudan has imposed a temporary ban on social media access, lasting up to three months, due to violent content related to attacks against its citizens in Sudan. The government aims to curb unrest sparked by graphic images circulated online. Telecom operators, complying with this directive, have notified users about the blockage. Local businesses are expressing concerns over the negative impacts of this ban on their operations.
On January 24, South Sudan’s government ordered telecommunications companies to suspend access to social media for an initial period not exceeding three months. The suspension was enacted due to concerns regarding the circulation of graphic and violent content related to attacks against South Sudanese individuals in neighboring Sudan. The National Communication Authority (NCA) reported that these violent incidents, shared widely on social media, had led to severe unrest within South Sudan, including riots and attacks on Sudanese-owned businesses.
The NCA emphasized that the ban is a necessary measure aimed at preventing the dissemination of explicit videos showcasing brutality against civilians, particularly women and children. Telecommunications providers, such as MTN, Zain, and Digitel, have notified their customers about the immediate suspension of access to social media platforms.
During recent events, refugee populations in Sudan faced violent assaults, sparking reactions within the South Sudanese community, particularly in urban centers like Juba. This unrest resulted in looting and violence, directly linked to the graphic content circulating online. The NCA’s Director General, Napoleon Adok Gai, stated that these actions violated national laws and could threaten public safety and mental well-being, especially for the most vulnerable populations.
Yar Mary, a local entrepreneur who operates an online business, expressed concerns about the adverse effects of the social media ban on her communications with clients. She warned that prolonged restrictions could jeopardize her business operations, underscoring the significant role social media plays in commercial interactions in today’s digital economy.
The suspension of social media access in South Sudan arises from escalating violence against South Sudanese citizens in Sudan. The government is particularly alarmed by the graphic nature of the content being shared, which has incited civil unrest within the country. The decision reflects the authorities’ intention to safeguard public order and mental health amid a delicate security situation that has already seen a surge in violence and unrest.
In conclusion, the government of South Sudan has opted to temporarily restrict access to social media to mitigate the risks associated with the spread of violent content that has incited violence and civil disturbances. While this decision aims to protect public order, it also poses significant challenges for local businesses relying on social media for communication and engagement with clients. The situation continues to evolve, and the impact of the ban will be closely monitored.
Original Source: english.news.cn
