Members of parliament during a sitting on Tuesday 11 June, 2024. Credit: Joval Tombe/ office of the speaker

Juba, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – The Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, Jemma Nunu Kumba, has cautioned some Members of Parliament against the misuse of social media for personal attacks, spreading misinformation, and promoting inflammatory rhetoric.

Speaking during the official opening of Parliament in Juba this morning, Nunu warned that such behaviour undermines the dignity of the august house and risks inciting division and mistrust among the very people who entrusted the lawmakers with their mandate.

Nunu observed that a few lawmakers have chosen to use social media as a platform for personal attacks, misinformation, and inflammatory rhetoric.

“A matter of serious concern is the growing misuse of social media platforms by some Members of this August House,” she said during the resumption of the parliament on Wednesday.

“Across the country, we have witnessed a rise in divisive and provocative narratives circulating online, narratives that threaten to undermine social cohesion, nation-building, and healing, and that fuel tensions at a time when unity is needed more than ever,” he stated.

She lamented that some legislators have been using social media to settle political scores or discredit fellow leaders.

The speaker further stated that such conduct could have dangerous consequences, including misleading young people and other members of the community.

“…regrettably, a few have chosen to use social media as a platform for personal attacks, misinformation, and inflammatory rhetoric,” he said.

“These actions not only erode the dignity of this House but also risk inciting division and mistrust among the very people we are entrusted to serve,” she added.