On January 22, 2025, South Sudan’s NCA announced a ban on social media channels for at least 30 days following a massacre in Wad Madani. This decision poses serious threats to civil liberties and public discourse, contradicting constitutional protections and international obligations regarding freedom of expression. Urgent action to restore access to these platforms is critical for a transparent and just society.
I must express my opposition to the recent decision enacted by the National Communication Authorities (NCA) of South Sudan to suspend all social media platforms. Effective January 22, 2025, this blanket ban is projected to last for at least 30 days, citing national grief following the tragic massacre of South Sudanese individuals in Wad Madani, Sudan. While the government aims to mitigate unrest, this action threatens civil liberties and hinders essential communication.
The shutdown impedes critical channels of expression and disrupts public dialogue at a time when transparency and discussion are paramount. Instead of fostering an atmosphere of healing, the government’s approach stifles discourse and restricts citizen engagement in conversations surrounding national challenges. Such heavy-handed action contradicts the freedoms outlined in South Sudan’s Constitution, specifically regarding freedom of speech and the right to information.
Moreover, this initiative represents a regression from democratic principles that uphold transparency and citizen rights. The deprivation of communication tools robs individuals of the opportunity to stay informed about local and global happenings. Such restrictive measures indicate a lack of commitment to human rights and a participatory political sphere vital for societal health.
The recent events in Wad Madani demand accountability, and social media has played a crucial role in enabling South Sudanese citizens to express their grief, organize, and demand justice. By closing off these platforms, the government has deprived citizens of essential means to advocate for themselves and hold those responsible for violence accountable.
Article 24 of South Sudan’s Transitional Constitution explicitly safeguards the right to freedom of expression. The decision to block social media contradicts this constitutional protection, unjustly limiting citizens’ access to information. Furthermore, South Sudan’s obligations under international agreements like the ICCPR and ACHPR highlight the country’s responsibility to uphold these rights.
While acknowledging the horrific loss of life, the government’s choice to impede communication fails to address underlying issues and incites frustration among citizens. Constructive responses should emphasize transparency and dialogue, enabling the government to provide updates on the investigation into the massacre and affirm its commitment to justice.
I urge the government to revoke this directive and restore social media access, empowering citizens to communicate and seek accountability without fear of repression. It is essential for the government to remember that its legitimacy is reliant on respecting civil rights rather than imposing restrictions. The tragedy in Wad Madani should catalyze action and accountability, not further communication barriers.
It is imperative that South Sudan embraces justice, transparency, and respect for its citizens’ rights in navigating the aftermath of tragedy. Silencing voices is counterproductive; reestablishing social media access would facilitate healing and reinforce the fundamental values of democracy and human rights that must prevail in society.
The South Sudanese government’s recent decision to ban social media is a response to the massacre of its nationals in Sudan, which has raised significant concerns about civil liberties and democratic principles. This move reflects a broader crisis in governance and respect for human rights, highlighting the delicate balance between national security and the essential freedoms protected under both national and international laws. The shutdown has serious implications for public discourse, access to information, and citizen engagement in a period of grief and national reflection.
In conclusion, the suspension of social media platforms in South Sudan serves as a dangerous infringement on civil liberties, contradicting the country’s constitutional guarantees and international commitments to human rights. It undermines the democratic principles vital for a healthy civil society. Immediate reversal of this ban is essential to uphold freedom of expression and allow citizens to seek justice and accountability in the wake of tragedy.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
