By William Madouk
National Communications Authority (NCA) has lifted the ban on Facebook and TikTok in South Sudan, effective from yesterday’s Midnight.
Media regulatory, NCA had imposed a week-long suspension of Facebook and TikTok platforms, which began on January 22, due to the spread of graphic and inflammatory content of killed South Sudanese in Madani.
In a statement by the NCA Director General, Napoleon Adok Gai confirmed that the primary objective of addressing harmful content had been successfully achieved.
“As a result of this achievement, the NCA hereby announces the lifting of the blockage of Facebook and TikTok, effective today at 00:00 hours, January 28, 2025,” he said.
“We urge all our licensees with cache servers of Facebook and TikTok being host in South Sudan to actively participate in monitoring these social media platforms and to assist in reporting inflammatory and graphic content that should be pulled down,” he added.
According to Adok, the ban was imposed to curb the circulation of content deemed to incite violence and instability.
“By lifting of this blockage of Facebook and TikTok operations, we wish to foster a safer digital environment and promote peace and stability in the country,” the statement reads.
NCA applauded internet service providers and mobile network operators for their cooperation during the blockade.
The authority emphasized the need for a balanced approach to addressing online incitement while protecting the rights of the public to access digital platforms.
Section of public, activists, and advocates heaped sharp criticism on the National Communication Authority (NCA) for blocking access to social media.
On Monday, Amnesty International appealed to the National Communication Authority (NCA) to lift the ban on Facebook and Titok immediately and instead investigate attacks on civilians.
Arop Malueth Manon, President of South Sudan Association Bar Association condemned the order and urged the NCA to withdraw and revoke the directives within 72 hours or face a legal suit case.