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Juba: Al-Naeim Mubarak Kuol
The ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) in South Sudan has threatened to shut down social media platforms in the country during a press conference.
SPLM Secretary-General Peter Lam Both stated that the party is committed to freedom of expression but warned against its misuse. Regarding the potential shutdown of social media” SPLM supports freedom of expression and speech, but when it is abused, it becomes a crime.” , he emphasized
“We have the capability to shut down social media in South Sudan. If social media becomes a platform against SPLM, we will allow those with the authority to shut it down to act.” He added
Both pointed to neighboring countries and major nations like China, where restrictions are imposed, to underline those social media freedoms in South Sudan remain largely unrestricted. However, he warned that the continued misuse of these freedoms could lead to stricter regulations.
“Even in the region, you don’t have access to social media like we do in South Sudan. Don’t push the button; don’t misuse freedom of expression, or you’ll end up being locked out,” he said.
The statement has sparked significant debate among South Sudanese social media users, with many criticizing the threats as undermining freedom of expression and democratic principles in the country.
One critic remarked that social media is not delaying the progress of the nation, but rather the rampant corruption embedded within the state’s institutions.
These criticisms were fueled by the leak of confidential documents allegedly involving the party’s Deputy Secretary-General, Dr. Paul Mell, requesting disclosure of the accounts of the President’s family from the Bank of South Sudan.
