Dakar, Senegal – (African Boulevard News) – The Senegalese people have expressed their condemnation of the recent restriction of social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Youtube amidst the ongoing unrest in the country. The restriction, implemented by the government, has caused outrage among the people who view it as a violation of their right to free speech and information.
Since the start of the unrest in Senegal, which began in March 2023, social media has played a significant role in disseminating information about the demonstrations and providing updates on their progress. However, the government views social media as a threat to national security and has taken the step of restricting its use during the ongoing protests.
“Banning the use of Youtube, Whatsapp, Facebook, etc… is a huge problem for us, because we can’t get real-time information about where demonstrations are taking place, and our safety is at stake. It’s a violation of our right to free speech and access to information,” said Maimouna, a Senegalese resident.
The restriction of social media has also sparked concerns among human rights activists, who view it as a move towards censorship and a violation of people’s fundamental rights. Alioune Tine, a regional director of Amnesty International, emphasized the importance of free speech in a democracy, saying, “Restricting access to social media platforms undermines the rights of Senegalese people to receive and impart information, a right that is protected by international human rights law.”
In addition, the Senegalese opposition party has raised concerns about the government’s restriction of social media, stating that it is an attempt to suppress dissent and control the narrative surrounding the ongoing protests. The party has called for the immediate lifting of the ban and a return to open and free communication channels.
The ongoing protests in Senegal have seen people demanding better governance and an end to corruption. The government’s response to these protests has been criticized by citizens and human rights groups alike.
As the situation in Senegal continues to unfold, it is imperative that the government ensures that the fundamental rights of its citizens are protected, including the right to free speech and access to information. Restricting social media platforms is not a solution and can only lead to further exacerbating an already volatile situation.
In conclusion, the people of Senegal have spoken out against the restriction of social media, stating that it is a violation of their right to free speech and access to information. Human rights groups and the opposition party have also raised concerns about the censorship and suppression of dissent that may arise as a result of the ban. As the situation in Senegal remains tense, it is crucial that the government respects its citizens’ fundamental rights and addresses the issues that have led to the ongoing unrest.
