In a significant development, South Sudan has lifted its temporary ban on social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, after a five-day suspension. The National Communications Authority (NCA) announced the decision in a letter to telecom and internet providers on Monday, stating that the graphic video content that had incited violence and retaliatory killings had been removed from the platforms.
The ban was initially imposed on January 22 after videos allegedly depicting attacks on South Sudanese nationals in Sudan surfaced online, leading to protests and violent clashes in South Sudan. At the time, the NCA instructed internet service providers to block access to social media for at least 30 days, citing security concerns and threats to public safety.
However, the move faced widespread criticism from human rights groups, who argued that it was an unjustified restriction on freedom of expression. Amnesty International urged South Sudanese authorities to reverse the ban, calling it a disproportionate response to the violence.
Following the ban’s reversal, many—including human rights groups and social media users—have welcomed the decision. Felicia Anthonio, #KeepItOn campaign manager at Access Now, expressed cautious optimism, stating that the move demonstrated that governments can respond to civil society’s calls for open and secure access to digital platforms.
Balancing Digital Rights and Security Challenges
The incident highlights the complexities of managing digital spaces in politically sensitive environments. South Sudan has a complicated relationship with social media, which has been both a tool for mobilization and a source of tension. The country has previously experienced several internet disruptions, including a 15-hour blackout in August 2021.
The broader issue of social media-fueled violence and hate speech remains a growing concern in Africa. According to a report by Surfshark, 30 African countries restricted social media access between 2015 and 2021, often citing security concerns or the need to maintain public order.
In South Sudan, the government has pledged to take a more balanced approach to social media regulation. Napoleon Adok Gai, director of the NCA, stated that the authority would focus on addressing the root causes of online incitement while protecting citizens’ digital rights.
As South Sudan navigates its digital future, experts suggest a more nuanced strategy. “The government should engage with civil society and the tech industry to develop policies that promote digital rights and freedoms,” said Bol Deng Bol, executive director of INTREPID, a South Sudanese-based civil society organization.
The lifting of the social media ban marks a pivotal moment for South Sudan, a country that continues to struggle with balancing security concerns and digital freedoms. Moving forward, it will be crucial to protect citizens’ rights while addressing the challenges posed by social media in politically charged situations.
Timeline of Events
- January 22 – The National Communications Authority (NCA) directs internet service providers to block access to social media platforms for at least 30 days.
- January 24 – Amnesty International calls on the South Sudanese government to reverse the ban.
- January 28 – The NCA announces the lifting of the ban in a letter to telecom and internet providers.
- January 29 – The decision is welcomed by human rights groups and social media users.
