Recent ban on WhatsApp voice and video calling services sparks controversy in Sudan

Certain services originally provided on the WhatsApp instant messaging application have recently been restricted, as in the most recent development a ban was implemented on voice and video calling services, which -in turn- sparked widespread controversy in Sudan.

Activists on social media questioned the motives to restrict WhatsApp voice and video calling services, suggesting that the ban is politically and economically motivated, enabling telecommunications companies to profit from phone calls, whilst stifling the public freedom.

According to activists, the Security Services are unable to intercept WhatsApp calls, hence, they resorted to the ban, which simply reflects their incompetence and inability to deal with the security situation across the country.

In addition, they pointed out that its easy to circumvent the ban imposed by the de facto authorities in Port Sudan by activating a VPN to make voice and video calls via the WhatsApp instant messaging app.