Human rights activist, James Bilal. (Photo: Courtesy).
The South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN) said Thursday it strongly condemns the National Communication Authority’s (NCA) recent directive to block access to social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, and related messaging services.
The watchdog said this action, though possibly intended in good faith, is unjustifiable and poses significant harm to fundamental rights and freedoms.
James Bidal, Head of Secretariat for SSHRDN said the directive is not just a blow to freedom of expression but also an attack on the constitutional rights of the people of South Sudan.
“The government must remember that the right to access information and express oneself freely is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 24 of our Transitional Constitution.”
It cites that the clause guarantees that “every citizen shall have the right to freedom of expression, reception
and dissemination of information, publication, and access to the press without prejudice to public order,
safety, or morals as prescribed by law.”
SSHRDN said blocking access to these platforms grossly undermines this constitutional protection. It added that social media is a critical tool for public discourse, civic engagement, and the free flow of information,
especially as South Sudan approaches its first democratic elections envisoned to take place in 2026.
“Platforms like Facebook and TikTok are not just social tools; they are lifelines for communication, public
accountability, and democracy. Silencing them risks silencing the voice of the people during one of the
most crucial periods in our nation’s history,” Bidal added.
The ban also disrupts social connections and hinders the broader development agenda of the country.
SSHRDN urgently calls on the NCA to reverse its decision and immediately restore access to the affected
platforms.
“We urge the government to recognize that honoring constitutional obligations and respecting
human rights are indispensable to nurturing an inclusive and transparent democratic process,” emphasized
Bidal.
The South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network remains committed to advocating for freedom of
speech & expression, and unabated access to information while preserving rights of all human beings.
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