In a recent statement issued by the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), alarm was raised regarding the increasing negative use of the social media platform Clubhouse among South Sudanese, particularly those residing in the diaspora. The organization expressed deep concerns over the potential repercussions of such activities on the country’s future, highlighting the risk of inciting violence and promoting extremist ideologies through online interactions.
Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, voiced his disappointment and dismay at witnessing educated South Sudanese individuals contributing to the dissemination of hate speech, misinformation, and violent rhetoric on Clubhouse. He emphasized the missed opportunity for these individuals to channel their energy towards constructive engagement, such as fostering democratic values and advocating for peace and accountability within the nation.
Urging Clubhouse operators to take proactive measures in monitoring and blocking discussions that promote violence over peace, Mr. Yakani called for the implementation of mechanisms to identify and report instances of genocidal discourse on the platform. He underscored the detrimental impact of such negative online interactions on the fabric of society and called for influential campaigns to raise awareness about the harmful consequences of misusing social media.
Moreover, CEPO advocated for the imposition of sanctions, including visa restrictions, by governments against individuals using Clubhouse to propagate hostile propaganda, hate speech, and misinformation that could potentially incite acts of violence or genocide. The organization highlighted the need for rigorous tracking and reporting of instances of misuse of social media platforms like Clubhouse to shed light on the extent of the problem and inform global stakeholders.
As CEPO remains committed to monitoring and addressing the negative impact of social media misuse on South Sudanese society, the call to action emphasizes the importance of responsible online behavior, constructive dialogue, and the promotion of peace-building efforts within the digital sphere. It is hoped that these initiatives will contribute to fostering a more harmonious and inclusive online environment for all users.