The government of South Sudan has announced the suspension of several social media platforms in response to the circulation of graphic videos allegedly depicting killings in neighboring Sudan. The decision, which has sparked controversy among citizens and international observers, aims to prevent the spread of content deemed harmful to national security and public order.
Information Minister Michael Makuei Lueth confirmed the suspension during a press briefing in Juba, stating that platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp had been temporarily blocked. The videos, widely shared online, reportedly show acts of violence and atrocities committed during Sudan’s ongoing internal conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The government has taken this decision to maintain peace and stability in South Sudan. The circulation of such videos incites hatred and unrest, and we cannot allow our people to be exposed to such harmful content, Makuei said. He also urged citizens to refrain from sharing unverified or inflammatory information on social media.
The suspension comes amid growing tensions in South Sudan, which shares a volatile border with Sudan. The conflict in Sudan has displaced millions and spilled over into neighboring countries, raising concerns about regional instability. South Sudan, still recovering from its own civil war, has been hosting thousands of refugees fleeing the violence.
Critics, however, argue that the move to block social media is an attempt to stifle freedom of expression and control public discourse. Activists and civil society groups have condemned the decision, calling it a violation of citizens’ rights to access information and communicate freely.
The government should focus on addressing the root causes of insecurity and fostering peace rather than censoring social media platforms. This is a setback for democracy and transparency, said Peter Biar Ajak, a South Sudanese activist.
International organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have also raised concerns, urging the South Sudanese government to respect fundamental freedoms. Blocking social media, they argue, undermines efforts to hold perpetrators of violence accountable and denies citizens access to critical information.
Meanwhile, internet users in South Sudan have reported difficulties accessing social media platforms, with many resorting to virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the restrictions. The widespread use of VPNs highlights the challenges of enforcing such a ban in an increasingly connected world.
The videos that prompted the suspension have drawn global attention to the deteriorating situation in Sudan. Reports indicate that the footage depicts mass killings, destruction of villages, and other human rights abuses, fueling calls for international intervention.
South Sudan’s government has reiterated its commitment to supporting peace efforts in Sudan while urging both parties to cease hostilities. President Salva Kiir has offered to mediate between the warring factions, emphasizing the need for a political solution to the crisis.
As the social media ban continues, the move has sparked debate about the balance between national security and individual freedoms in South Sudan. With the conflict in Sudan showing no signs of abating, the ripple effects on neighboring countries, including South Sudan, remain a pressing concern for regional stability
