Facebook and Tiktok Unlock: South Sudan Lifts Social Media Ban After Successful Removal of Inflammatory Content
The National Communication Authority (NCA) of South Sudan has lifted the blockage on Facebook and TikTok, effective immediately, after successfully removing graphic and inflammatory content from the platforms. The decision comes just five days after the NCA issued a directive to mobile network operators and internet service providers to block access to the two popular social media sites.
According to a statement released by the NCA, the primary objective of the blockage was to remove harmful content that was deemed to be inciting violence in the country. The Authority has praised the cooperation of mobile network operators and internet service providers in helping to fulfill its mandate.
The NCA has urged licensees with cache servers hosting Facebook and TikTok content in South Sudan to actively monitor the platforms and report any inflammatory or graphic content that should be removed. The move is seen as a balanced approach to addressing the root causes of online incitement while protecting the rights of the population.
The lifting of the blockage is expected to foster a safer digital environment and promote peace and stability in the country. The NCA’s decision has been welcomed as a positive step towards promoting freedom of expression and access to information in South Sudan.
The blockage of Facebook and TikTok had sparked concerns among citizens and human rights groups, who argued that it was an overly broad measure that restricted access to information and freedom of expression. The NCA’s decision to lift the blockage is seen as a victory for digital rights and a recognition of the importance of social media in promoting democracy and free speech.
