(JUBA) – The Speaker of South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly, Jemma Nunu Kumba, has called on Members of Parliament to stop using social media platforms for personal attacks and spreading misleading information. She warned that such actions risk damaging the credibility of the Parliament and creating unnecessary public mistrust.
Addressing lawmakers during the official opening of Parliament in Juba on Wednesday, Speaker Nunu expressed concern over the increasing use of online platforms by some MPs to engage in personal disputes and inflammatory rhetoric. She stated that such behaviour is not only inappropriate but also threatens national unity.
Nunu said, “A matter of serious concern is the growing misuse of social media platforms by some Members of this August House.” She explained that across the country, there has been a noticeable rise in divisive content on the internet, much of it fuelled by elected leaders.
She added, “We have witnessed a rise in divisive and provocative narratives circulating online, narratives that threaten to undermine social cohesion, nation building and healing, and that fuel tensions at a time when unity is needed more than ever.”
The Speaker pointed out that some MPs have been using social media to discredit fellow parliamentarians or settle political scores. She described these actions as damaging not just to individuals but to the public image and purpose of the Assembly itself.
“These actions not only erode the dignity of this House but also risk inciting division and mistrust among the very people we are entrusted to serve,” Nunu said.
She called for responsibility and restraint, especially given South Sudan’s fragile peace and the critical role of Parliament in guiding the nation’s future.
She further warned that inflammatory online posts could mislead young people and the wider public, encouraging harmful sentiments or creating division at a time when the country is preparing for its first general elections since independence.