Mauritius lifts social media ban following outcry from civil rights groups

Mauritius has lifted the social media restrictions it imposed earlier this week, just 24 hours after implementing the ban, citing “cyber-terrorism risks.”

The island nation’s decision to cut off social media access initially stirred widespread opposition from civil society groups, businesses, and individuals who argued it would “stifle democratic processes” and harm the economy.

The restrictions were ordered by Mauritius’ communications regulator following a wire tapping scandal that shook the country.

Since mid-October, about 20 leaked conversations involving politicians, police, lawyers, journalists, and civil society members have surfaced on social media, according to Reporters Without Borders.

One of the most troubling allegations involves a leaked call suggesting that the police commissioner urged a forensic doctor to alter a report related to a custodial death, leading to an official investigation.

On November 1, the Information and Communications Authority directed internet service providers to block access to major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, initially intending the restriction to last until November 11, the day after Mauritius' general election.

The office of Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth claimed, “the national security and integrity of our republic and our international partners may have been compromised” by the leaks.

Civil society groups, including the Internet Governance Forum and the Internet Society, quickly voiced strong objections, calling the restriction a dangerous precedent. In a joint statement, they argued that “the dangers of shutting down the internet far outweigh any perceived benefits,” warning that it could “limit access to essential information and services.”

The abrupt restriction drove many Mauritians to turn to VPNs to access social media, with a reported 9,547% surge in VPN usage on the day the ban took effect, according to Top10VPN.

Prime Minister Jugnauth, who is seeking re-election as leader of the Militant Socialist Movement, said an inquiry into the leaked recordings was underway, with some arrests already made.

However, he did not provide further details on the number or identities of those detained. His office noted that consultations with social media companies were ongoing, and efforts had been made to block the account responsible for sharing the recordings, though it continues to resurface on other platforms.

In a statement on Saturday, the Information and Communications Authority announced the reversal of the ban following “consultation with competent authorities.”

Mauritius Telecom confirmed that social media platforms were once again “fully accessible,” although the outcry from opposition groups and local media remains high.

For many Mauritians, the brief but intense blackout highlighted the critical role of social media in daily life and democratic discourse. As the election approaches, the government faces mounting pressure to maintain transparency while balancing national security concerns.

IOL News

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 14:31:04 GMTSarene Kloren

Share this post