South Sudan Restricts Social Media Use Violence Against Nationals in Sudan
South Sudanese authorities have ordered telecommunications companies to restrict social media access for at least 30 days, citing concerns over the spread of disturbing content related to ongoing violence against South Sudanese citizens in neighboring Sudan. The restriction, effective from midnight on Thursday, may be extended for up to 90 days if necessary.
The directive from the National Communication Authority (NCA) emphasized that the measure is critical to ensuring public safety and mental well-being. “The ban could be lifted as soon as the situation stabilizes,” the NCA stated. “The materials being shared violate our local laws and represent a serious risk to public safety.”
The decision follows widespread outrage in South Sudan over graphic videos allegedly showing militia groups in Sudan committing acts of violence against South Sudanese individuals, particularly in Gezira state. Retaliatory attacks broke out in Juba, where shops owned by Sudanese traders were vandalized, prompting authorities to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew beginning January 17.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the African Union Commission, condemned the killings of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan and urged all parties to exercise restraint.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023 between rival military factions, has led to the world’s largest displacement crisis, with millions affected by famine and violence. The conflict has been marked by ethnically targeted killings and sexual violence, as reported by the United Nations and human rights organizations.