By John Ikani
Senegalese officials held firm on Thursday, maintaining the ban on the TikTok social media app. Their condition for lifting the ban was clear: TikTok must agree to establish a system for account removal.
“Currently, the restriction remains in place until a comprehensive written agreement is reached,” stated Communications Minister Moussa Bocar Thiam during a press conference. He noted that ongoing discussions with TikTok were underway.
The authorities initially blocked TikTok access in August due to the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. The reason cited was the platform’s use for disseminating “hateful and subversive messages,” which posed a threat to the nation’s stability.
A power struggle between Ousmane Sonko, the leader of the Pastef party, and President Macky Sall resulted in violent protests in June, tarnishing Senegal’s reputation as West Africa’s most stable democracy.
In their discussions with TikTok, the government emphasized the need for improved platform regulation and sought clarification on the functionality of TikTok’s algorithm and data protection measures. They also called for fair compensation for content creators, enabling young individuals to earn a livelihood through social media.
