South Sudanese authorities have announced a 30-day restriction on social media platforms, effective from midnight on Thursday. The move comes in response to alarming content depicting violence against South Sudanese citizens in neighboring Sudan.
Addressing Public Safety Concerns
The National Communication Authority (NCA) issued directives to telecommunications providers, stating that the measure is essential for safeguarding public safety and mental well-being.
“The ban could be lifted as soon as the situation stabilizes,” the NCA assured. “The materials being shared violate local laws and pose a serious threat to public order.”
The restriction may be extended up to 90 days if necessary, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The South Sudanese public has reacted with outrage to videos allegedly showing militia groups in Sudan’s Gezira state committing acts of violence against South Sudanese nationals. These disturbing images have fueled retaliatory attacks in South Sudan, including vandalism of shops owned by Sudanese traders.
In response, South Sudanese authorities have imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew starting January 17 to prevent further unrest.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, condemned the violence, describing the killings of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan as “brutal” and urged all parties to exercise restraint.
Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which began in April 2023 between rival military factions in Khartoum, has escalated into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The conflict has led to mass displacement, famine, and reports of ethnically targeted killings and sexual violence, as documented by the United Nations and human rights groups.
South Sudanese authorities hope the social media ban will curb the spread of inflammatory content and help stabilize the situation. However, they emphasize that the ban is a temporary measure and will be reassessed as conditions evolve.
Amid these challenges, regional and international efforts are intensifying to address the growing crisis and promote peace in the region.