South Sudan has suspended social media access for up to three months due to graphic violence related to South Sudanese refugees in Sudan. The NCA emphasized the need to protect public safety and mental health, as violent images and videos have incited disturbances in South Sudan. Local businesses are concerned about the impact of this ban on their operations and client communications.
South Sudan has mandated telecom companies to block social media access for a maximum of three months due to concerns regarding the spread of graphic content related to violence affecting South Sudanese citizens in Sudan. This directive, effective from midnight Wednesday, was issued by the National Communication Authority (NCA), targeting all internet service providers and telecom operators in the nation.
The NCA has identified recent violence against South Sudanese refugees in Sudan as a catalyst for the ban, emphasizing that social media posts have played a critical role in disseminating violent imagery. This content has reportedly led to violent riots in South Sudan, specifically affecting areas such as Juba, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, and Warrap State, where anger towards Sudanese-owned businesses resulted in looting.
To maintain public safety and mental health, the NCA is enforcing this ban for at least 30 days, with the possibility of lifting it if the situation stabilizes. NCA Director General, Napoleon Adok Gai, stated that the violent footage circulating social media violates local laws and represents a significant threat to vulnerable populations.
Telecommunication providers, including MTN, Zain, and Digitel, have notified their users of the suspension of social media services. Some business owners, such as Yar Mary, have expressed concerns over the detrimental impact this ban will have on their operations, emphasizing the critical role social media plays in their client communications.
Authorities stress that this measure is vital for protecting the community from further violence and ensuring public safety during a period marked by uncertainty and unrest. The government remains vigilant, monitoring the situation closely as it evolves.
In recent weeks, violence against South Sudanese citizens living in Sudan has escalated, prompting the South Sudanese government to take preventive measures. These measures aim to curb the dissemination of graphic and violent content that could incite further unrest within South Sudan. This social media ban is part of a broader strategy to protect citizens and mitigate risks associated with the psychological impact of viewing distressing content online.
The South Sudan government has implemented a temporary social media ban in response to rising violence against its citizens in Sudan. This decision is intended to protect the public from exposure to graphic content and maintain order during a turbulent time. However, it raises concerns among local business owners about the direct impact on communication and commerce in the digital realm.
Original Source: english.news.cn
