Civil society activists and media rights advocates have expressed concern over the Government of South Sudan’s decision to begin enforcing the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act, 2026, warning that the legislation could be used to restrict freedom of expression and silence dissent ahead of the country’s anticipated elections.
The government announced the start of the law’s implementation following a meeting of the National Cyber-Security Task Force at the Office of the President, where President Salva Kiir instructed relevant institutions to coordinate its enforcement.
While acknowledging the importance of tackling cybercrime, the Chairperson of the South Sudan Civil Society Network, Bol Deng Bol, cautioned that the law must be implemented in a manner that respects constitutional rights and democratic freedoms.
“There are key tenets of democracy that our country is trying to build that we cannot compromise. One of these is freedom of expression—whether online, through assembly, association, or independent media,” he said. “Our concern is that the timing of the implementation suggests the law could be misused to stifle voices before, during, and after elections.”
Government officials say the legislation is designed to strengthen cybersecurity, regulate the country’s digital space, and combat cyber-related crimes. The Act criminalizes online content that promotes tribalism, incites violence, threatens national security, or spreads false or misleading information capable of damaging reputations, undermining public confidence, or causing public panic.
The law also introduces penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment for offences including cyberbullying and cyber harassment.
However, civil society organizations argue that several provisions are broadly worded, creating the potential for abuse. They warn that vague definitions could allow authorities to criminalize legitimate online expression, target journalists, and suppress political criticism.
Bol also raised concerns about the limited public awareness of the new legislation, particularly in rural communities.
“The level of awareness at the grassroots level—in counties, payams, bomas, the ten states, and the three administrative areas—is extremely minimal,” he said. “It will be difficult to enforce a law that many people do not even know exists. This needs to be addressed, and the National Civil Society Coalition will closely monitor its implementation and intervene where necessary.”
Media freedom advocates echoed those concerns, warning that journalists, bloggers, and ordinary social media users could face prosecution for reporting on matters of public interest or expressing critical opinions if the law is enforced without adequate legal safeguards.
Human rights organizations have called on the government to establish independent oversight mechanisms and publish clear implementation guidelines to prevent arbitrary enforcement. They have also urged authorities to engage civil society groups, media organizations, and legal experts to ensure the legislation strikes a balance between national security, public safety, and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
Despite the criticism, government officials maintain that the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Act is intended to improve online safety, protect critical digital infrastructure, and address the growing threat of cybercrime as internet access expands across South Sudan.
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