(Reuters) – Senegal has taken a strong stance on controlling social media access in response to ongoing opposition protests and concerns about the misuse of online platforms.
The communications minister announced on Wednesday that the suspension of access to the popular social media app TikTok until further notice. This decision came just days after the government limited the use of mobile internet in the country.
The minister’s statement highlighted that TikTok had become a favored platform for individuals with malicious intentions to disseminate hateful and subversive messages, posing a threat to the nation’s stability.
The government’s justification for restricting internet access was similar in nature, citing the need to prevent the spread of potentially harmful content.
These measures were implemented amid the backdrop of the arrest and charging of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who faced accusations of plotting an insurrection, criminal conspiracy, and other offenses.
Sonko’s supporters had previously engaged in sporadic violent protests, alleging that President Macky Sall orchestrated the charges to eliminate Sonko from the upcoming elections.
As Senegal faces the challenge of balancing freedom of speech with maintaining national security and stability, the situation remains tense, with concerns about the impact of these restrictions on the country’s political landscape.
The government’s decisions have drawn attention and scrutiny both domestically and internationally, prompting discussions about the appropriate balance between public safety and individual liberties.
