Arop Jonchol
By Emmanuel Michael Gatjiek
South Sudan’s Media Authority has cautioned lawmakers not to spew hate speech or incite violence on social media in the midst of escalating tensions.
Elijah Alier, Managing Director of the media regulating agency, said on Monday that inflammatory speech risks worsening tensions, as recent battles between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and armed youth in Nasir County, known as the White Army, fuelled worries of wider unrest.
“The Media Authority is deeply concerned about the recent surge in hate speech and incitement to violence, particularly related to the conflict in Nasir County,” Alier told reporters. “This situation is worsened by misinformation and politically charged statements.”
Alier encouraged journalists and public people to avoid polarizing narratives that could incite violence. “All stakeholders, including politicians and social media users, must act responsibly to prevent further bloodshed,” urged Mr. Trump. “Inflammatory statements only heighten tensions and endanger innocent lives.”
The warning comes following an online interaction between South Sudanese lawmakers and Ugandan Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who recently made controversial remarks regarding the Nasir ethnic group and First Vice President Riek Machar on social media platform X.
Alier advocated for conflict-sensitive reporting and stated that the Media Authority will collaborate with law enforcement to take individuals promoting hate speech accountable.
“Independent journalism must avoid harm while serving the public interest,” he said. “The misuse of social media to spread disinformation is a major concern.”
