Back to Social Media; South Sudan Lifts Ban on Facebook and TikTok

Back to Social Media; South Sudan Lifts Ban on Facebook and TikTok

South Sudan has lifted its week-long ban on Facebook and TikTok, which was imposed following the circulation of graphic videos depicting the alleged killings of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan. The disturbing content, which went viral on social media, ignited protests and violent unrest across South Sudan.

On January 27, the National Communications Authority of South Sudan confirmed that the videos have been removed from both platforms. The viral footage, which showed graphic scenes of violence, triggered retaliatory attacks and widespread turmoil in South Sudan.

Napoleon Adok Gai, Director of the National Communications Authority, remarked, “The violence fueled by social media highlights the importance of addressing online incitement while balancing the protection of citizens’ rights.” The government has acknowledged the delicate balance between safeguarding national security and ensuring the free flow of information.

Human rights organizations have pointed fingers at the Sudanese army for the ethnically-targeted attacks in El Gezira state, which followed the army’s capture of the state capital, Wad Madani. The Sudanese military has referred to the incidents as “individual violations,” though the footage of the attacks was widely shared, further fueling tensions in the region.

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *