Author: Wol Mapal | Published: 4 hours ago
Ateny Wek Ateny, Minister of Information, Communications, Technology, and Postal Services. Credit: PPU
The Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, Ateny Wek Ateny, has warned social media users that the government will take strict legal action against those who engage in hate speech and online incitement.
Speaking on Saturday at a public gathering in Juba, Minister Ateny said the misuse of social media in South Sudan has gone beyond the limits of press freedom and will no longer be tolerated, especially at a time of political tension and insecurity.
“The misuse of social media in this country has gone too far and should not be condoned anymore,” Ateny said.
He said the government has introduced new policies and measures to identify, arrest and prosecute individuals who use social media platforms to spread hate speech and incite violence.
“And by the way, the government has introduced new policies. If you are using social media in South Sudan, from today onwards, be cautious and responsible,” he warned. “Do not be surprised if anyone comes knocking on your door. First, you will be jailed and taken to a competent court for trial, and if you are found guilty of hate speech, you will be imprisoned.”
The minister also highlighted the recently passed Cyber Crime and Computer Misuse Bill, saying the law has no limitations and is already in force.
He cautioned social media users against assuming the law has not yet been enforced, stressing that those found responsible for online abuse will be held accountable.
“The law is there, and it will face the perpetrators,” he said.
Ateny added that freedom of expression does not give individuals the right to promote division, hatred or violence, urging citizens to use digital platforms responsibly and in support of national unity.
His remarks come amid growing political tensions in the country, with authorities linking hate speech and incitement on social media to rising instability and threats to peace.
The government has repeatedly called on citizens, activists and media practitioners to exercise restraint online and to use social media as a tool for peacebuilding rather than conflict.
