By The South Sudanese government has taken the drastic step of blocking access to social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, citing a rise in revenge violence fueled by graphic content circulating online. The National Communication Authority (NCA) announced the directive on January 23, 2025, enforcing a three-month social media blackout effective immediately.
The Decision and Its Justification
The NCA explained the measure as a response to “unprecedented levels of extreme violence” sparked by social media posts showing atrocities against South Sudanese refugees in Sudan. A viral video last week depicted South Sudanese refugees in Wad Madani, Gezira State, Sudan, being brutally attacked, allegedly by Sudanese army soldiers.
“The graphic violence, especially targeting women and children, has deeply affected public safety and mental health,” said NCA Director General Napoleon Adok. Citing sections 9(G)(F) and 34(6) of the National Communication Act, 2012, Adok emphasized that the government deemed the shutdown essential to containing the unrest.
The directive orders internet service providers to block access to all social media accounts for a minimum of 30 days, with the possibility of extending the blockade to 90 days. Telecom giants like MTN and Zain have already complied, suspending access to the specified platforms.
Public Outcry and Criticism
The decision has sparked widespread condemnation, with many South Sudanese netizens accusing the government of censorship and infringing on digital rights. Critics argue that the ban hinders access to critical information and undermines efforts to hold perpetrators of violence accountable.
“Why block social media when it’s the very tool that alerted us to the plight of our people in Sudan?” questioned Dut Machine Mabior, a prominent online commentator. Others, like Acholita Morenita, stressed that the root causes of the violence—poverty, hunger, and lack of government accountability—must be addressed instead of silencing the public.
Rights groups have also weighed in, labeling the move an abuse of power and a violation of fundamental freedoms. South Sudan has a history of internet shutdowns, with a notable blackout in August 2021 that lasted 15 hours, disrupting communication across the nation.
Revenge Protests and Rising Tensions
The violence in Sudan has strained the already fragile relationship between the two nations, which have a history of hosting each other’s refugees. Last week’s incidents have sparked revenge protests in South Sudan, leading to attacks on Sudanese businesses and resulting in 19 deaths.
In response, both Juba and Khartoum have condemned the violence and called for calm. While Sudan has promised an investigation into the attacks, South Sudan has expressed interest in participating in the inquiry to ensure justice for its citizens.
A Complex History of Refugee Relations
South Sudan and Sudan share a turbulent history, with both nations hosting significant populations of each other’s refugees. Before April 2023, Sudan was home to the largest number of South Sudanese refugees. However, the ongoing conflict in Sudan has reversed the flow, with many Sudanese now seeking refuge in South Sudan.
The latest violence threatens the social cohesion between the two communities, raising concerns about further retaliation and instability.
The Way Forward
As the social media blackout takes effect, questions remain about its efficacy in addressing the underlying issues. Critics argue that such measures are reactionary and fail to tackle the systemic problems fueling violence and unrest.
Rights advocates are calling for transparency, accountability, and a focus on sustainable solutions that promote peace and stability in the region. Meanwhile, South Sudanese citizens are finding ways to circumvent the blockade, using virtual private networks (VPNs) to stay connected.
The social media ban highlights the delicate balance between national security and the protection of digital rights—a debate that continues to unfold in South Sudan and beyond.
