By Otto Abut
Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, Edmund Yakani, has raised concerns over the growing misuse of social media platforms, warning that they are increasingly being used to spread hate, misinformation, and division.
He pointed to platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Clubhouse as spaces where harmful narratives are gaining ground, echoing earlier warnings by national police about online incitement fueling tensions across South Sudan.
Yakani urged citizens both inside the country and in the diaspora to avoid hate speech and instead use digital platforms responsibly.
“Social media should be used for constructive dialogue, not to spread division or misinformation,” he said. “The situation on the ground is deteriorating, and civilians are paying a heavy price due to ongoing clashes. Spreading hate and false information only worsens the crisis.”
He also called on Western governments to take action against individuals within their borders who use online platforms to incite instability in South Sudan.
Yakani further warned about the rising spread of manipulated content, including AI-generated images used to mislead the public. He cited a recent false claim circulating online alleging that more than 100 people were at risk in Akobo, which was backed by fabricated images. Investigations later confirmed the claims were untrue.
“We must verify information before sharing it,” Yakani stressed. “False narratives can lead to panic, violence, and the loss of innocent lives.”