A new report by Open Secrets has accused telecom giant MTN of playing a role in government-enforced Internet shutdowns across Africa and the Middle East, raising serious concerns about human rights violations.
The report alleges that MTN and its subsidiaries have repeatedly complied with directives to cut off access to the Internet and social media, often during elections, protests, and political crises.
The Open Secrets report highlights cases where MTN restricted digital access under government orders, including:
- Cameroon (2017): MTN shut down Internet services in regions affected by conflict near the Nigerian border.
- Uganda (2016): MTN blocked MobileMoney and social media services during the country’s general elections.
- Ethiopia, Eswatini, Zimbabwe: Authorities frequently ordered Internet blackouts during protests and civil unrest.
- Iran and Sudan: MTN subsidiaries enforced shutdowns during political crises.
Governments often justify these measures as national security precautions, but human rights groups argue they are used to silence dissent and control information flow.
MTN has responded to the allegations, stating:
“We operate within the regulatory frameworks of each market, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and licensing agreements.”
The company maintains that as a licensed telecom provider, it has a legal duty to follow government orders. However, critics argue that MTN’s compliance enables digital repression, limiting free speech and access to information for millions.
Internet shutdowns are becoming a common tool for authoritarian governments, especially in Africa. Activists and civil society groups have called on telecom companies like MTN to resist such orders or at least push for greater transparency and legal protections against arbitrary shutdowns.
The question remains: should telecom operators prioritise human rights over regulatory compliance, or do their legal obligations outweigh ethical concerns?
As scrutiny on digital freedoms intensifies, MTN and other global telecom providers may soon be forced to take a clearer stance on the issue.
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