South Sudan has enacted a temporary ban on social media for at least 30 days due to concerns over graphic content related to violence against South Sudanese in Sudan. Issued by the National Communication Authority, the ban may be extended for up to 90 days. The decision is part of efforts to safeguard public safety amid rising tensions and violence in the region.
South Sudan has mandated a temporary ban on social media platforms for a duration of at least 30 days, responding to rising concerns over the circulation of distressing content linked to violence against South Sudanese citizens in neighboring Sudan. This directive was issued by the National Communication Authority (NCA) and will come into effect at midnight Thursday. The NCA emphasizes that this measure is essential to safeguard public safety.
The extension of this ban could last up to 90 days, depending on the evolving situation. The NCA remarked that the content being shared contravenes local laws and significantly threatens both public safety and mental health. This decision follows recent tensions, including retaliatory violence against Sudanese traders in South Sudan, which prompted authorities to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew.
Footage depicting violent acts purportedly committed by militia groups against South Sudanese nationals has incited outrage among the South Sudanese populace. Recent civil strife in Sudan has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, leading to famine and widespread displacement as fighting escalates following clashes between rival military factions in April 2023.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the chairperson of the African Union Commission, has denounced the brutal killings of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan and urged restraint amidst the conflict. This turmoil has raised serious concerns among international bodies, including the United Nations and various human rights organizations, which have reported heinous acts of violence, including ethnic killings and rape.
The conflict in Sudan has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, leading to food shortages and mass displacements. The outbreak of violence in April 2023 between opposing military leaders has intensified, causing untold suffering and prompting responses from neighboring countries like South Sudan. The government there is particularly concerned about the impact of violent content circulating on social media.
In summary, the South Sudanese government’s temporary ban on social media is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting public safety amidst rising tensions related to violence in Sudan. The ban is influenced by disturbing content linked to the conflict, which poses mental health risks to the populace. The situation remains fluid, and further measures may be necessary as events continue to develop in the region.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
