South Sudan Bar Association Denounces Government’s Social Media Shutdown as Unconstitutional
The South Sudan Bar Association (SSBA) has publicly condemned a recent decision by the National Communication Authority (NCA) to partially block all social media platforms for a period of 90 days, a move the organization deems unconstitutional and detrimental to the rights of South Sudanese citizens.
In a press release issued today, the SSBA expressed its strong opposition to the NCA’s directive, which came into effect on January 22, 2025. The Bar Association asserts that the order contravenes Articles 24 and 19 of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan, as well as international agreements that protect freedom of speech and access to information.
“The decision of the NCA is a significant infringement on the rights to freedom of expression and access to essential information,” stated Arop Malueth Manon, President of the South Sudan Bar Association. “Social media serves as a crucial platform for the exchange of information, particularly concerning the ongoing humanitarian crises in the region.”
The NCA justified the ban by citing a need to prevent the spread of videos depicting atrocities committed in Wad-Medani, Sudan. However, the SSBA argues that such measures punish the broader South Sudanese populace for the actions of a few, impairing not only public discourse but also the operations of local entrepreneurs reliant on these platforms for their businesses.
Legally, the Bar Association suggests that the NCA has overstepped its authority, emphasizing that the National Communications Authority Act of 2012 does not provide the agency with the mandate to impose such a shutdown. Furthermore, the rapid implementation of the order, which took place in less than 12 hours, has been criticized as unreasonable and lacking constitutional basis.
In light of these concerns, the SSBA has called on the NCA to rescind its order within 72 hours. Should the authority fail to comply, the Association has indicated its readiness to seek legal recourse through national and regional courts, including the East African Court of Justice.
“We remain committed to advocating for the rule of law and human rights for South Sudanese citizens, including their digital rights,” President Manon concluded. “We will not stand idly by while essential freedoms are violated.”
As the situation develops, the South Sudanese public and international observers will be watching closely to see how the government responds to this mounting pressure for accountability and respect for human rights.
