JUBA, March 24 — Elijah Alier, managing director of South Sudan’s Media Authority, has cautioned politicians against using hate speech and inciting violence on social media, amid heightened tensions following clashes in Nasir County.
Alier expressed concern over inflammatory rhetoric and misinformation, warning that such actions risk exacerbating divisions. “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 said Monday. The clashes involved South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army, a group of armed youth.
Urging media outlets, politicians, and social media users to act responsibly, Alier emphasised that divisive narratives could worsen the situation. “Inflammatory statements only heighten tensions and endanger innocent lives,” he said.
The warning comes amid a heated online exchange involving South Sudanese politicians and Uganda’s Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who made contentious remarks about the Nasir ethnic group and First Vice President Riek Machar on the social media platform X.
Alier highlighted the importance of conflict-sensitive reporting and pledged that the Media Authority would collaborate with law enforcement to hold individuals spreading hate speech accountable. “Independent journalism must avoid harm while serving the public interest,” Alier added. “The misuse of social media to spread disinformation is a major concern.”
The Media Authority’s appeal aims to curb the escalation of violence and promote responsible communication as the nation seeks to address ongoing challenges to peace and stability.
