South Sudan has ordered a 30-day ban on social media following violence against South Sudanese in Sudan, citing public safety concerns. The National Communication Authority stressed the necessity of the measure as graphic content poses mental health risks. A curfew has also been enforced amid protests against retaliatory violence experienced by South Sudanese individuals.
South Sudanese authorities have issued a directive mandating telecom companies to suspend access to social media for a minimum of 30 days. This action is a response to concerns regarding the widespread sharing of distressing content related to violence against South Sudanese individuals in neighboring Sudan. The National Communication Authority emphasized that this measure is crucial for protecting public safety and mental health.
The ban is set to be implemented at midnight on Thursday, with the possibility of extension up to 90 days. The directive highlights the violation of local laws by the content in question, which poses significant risks to public well-being. The National Communication Authority stated that the restrictions could be lifted if the situation stabilizes.
The move has aggravated feelings among South Sudanese citizens, sparked by videos allegedly documenting incidents of violence and killings perpetrated by militia groups against their compatriots in Sudan’s Gezira state. In light of the unrest, South Sudanese authorities have also enforced a curfew from dusk until dawn, following violent retaliatory acts on the night of January 17.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, has denounced the “brutal killings of South Sudanese nationals” in Sudan and has called for restraint in the ongoing conflict. The civil war in Sudan has resulted in disastrous humanitarian consequences, including widespread famine and an unparalleled displacement crisis affecting millions.
Since the outbreak of fighting in April 2023, conflicts between military factions have resulted in numerous human rights violations, including ethnically motivated killings and other atrocities. Reports from the United Nations and various human rights organizations have highlighted the disturbing nature of these incidents, further compounding the crisis facing the region.
South Sudan’s government implemented this social media ban amidst soaring tensions due to violence in neighboring Sudan, where civil conflict has intensified. Since April 2023, rivalry between military commanders has led to severe consequences, including violence against citizens. The unrest has created alarming humanitarian issues, marked by famine and a large displacement of people. The decision to ban social media aims to prevent further aggravation of public unrest and protect the populace from distressing content.
In summary, the South Sudanese authorities have introduced a temporary suspension of social media access to mitigate the impact of graphic content related to violence in Sudan. This decisive yet controversial measure aims to uphold public safety amid increasing tensions and civil unrest in the region. The humanitarian crisis stemming from ongoing conflict continues to be a pressing concern for both South Sudan and Sudan, necessitating ongoing international attention and intervention.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
