#HandsOffSocialMedia: South Africa responds to social media regulations

In a press briefing yesterday, Minister of State Security David Mahlobo hinted at the possibility of social media regulation in an attempt to counter “false narratives”.

Mahlobo claimed that instead of bringing people together in a positive way, social media has become a cesspool for negativity, lies and fake news.

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“Even the best democracies that are revered, [are] regulating [social media]. Most of our challenges are coming from that space. We will discuss how we will regulate it,” he claimed.

For many South Africans, Twitter is a way to let their voices be heard. It can be argued that the democratic system of South Africa is convoluted and it’s difficult for the average citizen to participate directly.

Social media can act as a community forum, and hashtags can bring people interested in specific political issues together — like we’ve seen with #xenophobia and #FeesMustFall.

True to form, Twitter has pushed back against the suggested regulations with #HandsOffSocialMedia.

Many are criticising the ANC for focusing on such a minor issue when there are more important problems to address.

Others are pointing out that regulation of speech is undemocratic and unconstitutional.

But there are those who believe regulations would be good for South Africa.

Others just want to see the anger on Twitter translated into votes.

And others couldn’t be less concerned.

Featured image: GovernmentZA via Flickr (CC 2.0, resized)

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