Unanimous Vote in Transitional Assembly
The Transitional National Legislative Assembly voted unanimously on Tuesday to pass the Cybercrime and Computer Misuse Bill 2025.
Justice Minister Michael Makuei Lueth argued the country can no longer prosecute online offenses without a clear statute, calling the measure “a necessary step toward global standards”.
Key Offences and Penalties Outlined
The bill criminalises hacking, espionage, cyber terrorism and economic sabotage, as well as fake websites, false information and gender-based harassment.
Minor infractions carry up to two years in prison or fines of one million South Sudanese Pounds, with lawmakers saying amounts may be reviewed as the economy shifts.
Long Road From 2021 Draft to Approval
First issued by President Salva Kiir as a provisional order in May 2021, the draft stalled until September 2024, before returning to parliament for formal debate.
MP David Okwera called the final vote “a milestone” after years of delay, noting that technical tweaks can still occur post-passage.
Civil Society Voices Caution
Edmund Yakani of CEPO welcomed a legal framework but warned that security agencies in the region have misused similar laws to silence critics.
Legal analyst Mario Atak Deng countered that the act could strengthen constitutional privacy protections by regulating data handling in the digital space.
Next Step: Presidential Signature
The legislation now goes to President Kiir, who may assent, return, or reject it within 30 days.
Observers say enforcement will be scrutinised in a nation with internet penetration below 15% yet rising cases of online fraud and impersonation.