South Sudan has suspended access to social media for at least 30 days following riots incited by videos of alleged killings of South Sudanese nationals in Sudan. Violence erupted in Juba, leading to significant unrest and retaliatory actions against Sudanese nationals, prompting authorities to act to prevent further escalations. Mobile operators notified their customers of a potential 90-day blocking period for platforms like Facebook and TikTok.
JUBA (Reuters) – In response to the violent incidents incited by videos showcasing the alleged murders of South Sudanese individuals in Sudan’s El Gezira state, South Sudanese authorities have decided to suspend access to various social media platforms for at least 30 days. The suspension is set to take effect at midnight on Wednesday, as confirmed by Napolepon Adok, Director General of the National Communications Authority.
Adok highlighted in his letter to internet service providers that the decision stems from the significant unrest witnessed in Sudan, which has subjected the population of South Sudan to an alarming degree of violence via social media. Mobile operators MTN South Sudan and Zain have indicated that their customers will be unable to access platforms such as Facebook and TikTok for a maximum duration of 90 days.
Recent turmoil resulted in the death of at least 16 Sudanese nationals, following violent riots in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, and other cities. In retaliation for the actions believed to involve Sudan’s military and allied factions in the El Gezira killings, local youths engaged in looting and vandalizing businesses owned by Sudanese nationals, as well as setting fire to numerous homes. The Sudanese army, for its part, has condemned such events as “individual violations” occurring within El Gezira.
The unrest in South Sudan is part of a broader context of violence and political instability affecting the region. Recent incidents stemming from South Sudan’s perception of involvement by Sudanese military forces in killings have led to retaliatory actions against Sudanese nationals living in South Sudan. The suspension of social media is seen as a preventive measure aimed at curbing further violence and unrest, which has been exacerbated through violent content shared online.
The suspension of social media platforms in South Sudan reflects urgent measures taken by authorities to address rising tensions and prevent further violence. With significant unrest caused by tragic events in Sudan and retaliatory violence in South Sudan, authorities aim to stabilize the situation. The impact of these decisions underscores the sensitive dynamics between the nations and the challenges of managing social media’s role in exacerbating discontent.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
