South Sudan Implements Temporary Social Media Ban Amidst Violence in Sudan
South Sudan has mandated a temporary ban on social media for at least 30 days due to graphic content related to violence against South Sudanese in Sudan. This measure, aimed at protecting public safety, may be extended up to 90 days. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to severe humanitarian crises, prompting authorities to take action to prevent social unrest.
South Sudanese authorities have mandated telecommunications providers to suspend access to social media for a minimum of 30 days, due to apprehensions regarding the distribution of graphic content related to violent events impacting South Sudanese in Sudan. The ban, effective from midnight on Thursday, may be prolonged up to 90 days based on the situation, as stipulated by the National Communication Authority (NCA).
The NCA emphasized that this measure aims to safeguard public safety and mental well-being, citing the violation of local laws by the graphic content being circulated. The agency stated, “This directive may be lifted as soon as the situation is contained.”
The South Sudanese populace has expressed outrage regarding visual footage reportedly showing violent attacks against their nationals by militia groups in Sudan’s Gezira state. In response to related violence, authorities enacted a nighttime curfew beginning January 17, following incidents of looting targeting shops belonging to Sudanese traders.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the chairperson of the African Union Commission, condemned the recent violence, labeling it as “the brutal killings of South Sudanese nationals.” He urged all parties involved to exercise restraint amidst the escalating conflict.
The ongoing civil unrest in Sudan has triggered a severe famine and has led to a significant displacement crisis, recognized as the world’s largest. Hostilities have intensified between factions loyal to opposing military leaders since April 2023, particularly in Khartoum, with the impact felt across various regions.
Various organizations, including the United Nations, have reported severe atrocities during the conflict, encompassing ethnically driven killings and acts of sexual violence. Such violations have heightened concerns regarding the humanitarian implications associated with the unrest in Sudan.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in widespread violence that has directly affected South Sudanese communities. As hostilities intensified in April 2023, a series of brutal incidents, including targeted killings of South Sudanese individuals, has been reported. In reaction to this situation, South Sudanese authorities have taken steps to mitigate the psychological impact on its citizens by restricting access to distressing content on social media. Due to rising tensions and retaliatory violence, the temporary ban on social media reflects the government’s attempt to maintain public order during a tumultuous period. Moreover, the violence in Sudan has culminated in severe humanitarian crises, with the United Nations and other rights organizations addressing the ongoing atrocities. This situation is further complicated by the severe famine and extensive displacement resulting from the civil war in Sudan, making it imperative for South Sudan to protect its citizens from additional trauma in the wake of these incidents.
In summary, South Sudan’s decision to temporarily ban social media access arises from concerns regarding public safety amidst ongoing violence against South Sudanese in Sudan. The authorities underscored the necessity to shield the populace from disturbing graphic content while addressing the significant crisis stemming from the conflict. With calls for restraint from international bodies, the situation highlights the broader humanitarian issues resulting from the civil unrest in Sudan.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
