South Sudan blocks social media for 90 days after violent protests over videos showing alleged killings of its nationals in Sudan.

South Sudan has directed internet service providers to block access to social media platforms for three months following violent protests sparked by the deaths of its nationals in neighboring Sudan. The directive was issued by the National Communication Authority (NCA) in a letter to internet providers on Wednesday.

The NCA Director General, Napoleon Adok Gai, stated that the order mandates all internet service providers to restrict access to social media accounts starting from midnight on January 22, 2025, for a maximum duration of 90 days. This decision, he explained, stems from the recent unrest in Sudan, where social media posts have exposed South Sudanese citizens to extreme violence.

Gai elaborated that South Sudanese refugees in Wad Madani, a city in Sudan, were victims of violent attacks that led to the deaths of women and children. These events were recorded and shared on social media without consideration for their impact. He added that the directive could be lifted sooner if the situation stabilizes.

The graphic content shared on social media, according to Gai, violates local laws and poses a serious threat to public safety and mental health, especially for vulnerable groups. He emphasized that the regulator's goal is to ensure a safe digital space that aligns with the country's legal framework and national values.

The unrest has also led to heavy gunfire and the deployment of security forces in Juba, South Sudan’s capital, to prevent angry youths from looting businesses owned by Sudanese nationals. The violence was triggered by protests against the reported killings of 16 Sudanese nationals during riots last week. These riots were fueled by allegations that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) had killed South Sudanese citizens in Sudan's El Gezira region.