South Sudan Media Authority has urged members of the public to cease hate speech and social media misused.
The regulator warned those spreading hate speech and urged them to cease content that can fuel conflict.
Addressing Journalists on Monday, Elijah Alier Kuai, the Managing Director of Media Authority expressed concern over rise in hate speech in relation to Nasir conflict.
“Media Authority is deeply concerned about the recent surge in hate speech and incitement to violence, particularly related to the conflict in Nasir County and surrounding areas” Alier said.
He added the spread of misinformation, politically charged statements, reckless media reporting along ethnic lines as well as misuse of social media platforms fuelled conflict.
The Managing Director called on the public to channelled their energies toward messages that build peace in the country.
“It is crucial for all stakeholders, including politicians, media outlets, and social media users, to act responsibly to prevent further escalation of violence and disintegration of our social fabric” he said
He warned those spreading hate speech adding those involve will face the law.
“Social media platforms must be used responsibly, and users should be aware of the legal consequences of spreading harmful content” he said.
Unfortunately, in recent weeks, political figures have exchanged inflammatory statements that contribute to the fear of conflicts in the country.
The Authority also advised the politicians to cease use of words that incite violent.
“Media Authority urges politicians to consider the impact of their words and avoid making inflammatory statements that could lead to more bloodshed” Alier said.
The regulator urged the media houses and journalists in the country to focus on peace reporting.
