Niger Republic’s junta requires WhatsApp and Facebook groups with 50+ members to register, claiming it’s to combat cyber threats. The Minister of Communication highlighted both free speech restrictions and the need for registration to facilitate taxation related to e-commerce on these platforms.
Niger Republic’s ruling junta has announced a new policy requiring all WhatsApp and Facebook groups with 50 or more members to register with a government agency. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at restricting free speech and controlling the dissemination of information. The Minister of Communication, Sidi Mohamed Raliou, emphasized the importance of regulating these groups to counter threats posed to the government through social media use. He also acknowledged the role of these platforms in facilitating local and global e-commerce, thus necessitating registration for tax purposes.
The Niger Republic junta’s decision to mandate registration for social media groups with 50 or more members reflects its aim to control free expression. This policy not only imposes regulatory measures on digital communication but also seeks to align such platforms with government oversight for taxation purposes. The stated rationale of combating cyber threats adds a layer of complexity to the issue of digital freedom.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
