To Meta Platforms Inc.,

We, the undersigned, urgently call on Meta to restore the Facebook page of Al Ensirafi (الانصرافي الانصرافي), a prominent voice for the Sudanese people who have fled the civil war since April 6, 2023. His page has been a crucial platform for sharing news, insights, and updates about the situation on the ground, and its recent blockage has silenced an important source of information for many people.

Background:

Al Ensirafi has tirelessly worked to provide updates about the ongoing conflict in Sudan, including casualty reports and situational updates. His commitment to neutrality—by not siding with any government or political body—has earned him the trust and admiration of many. His live streams regularly garner over 200,000 views a day, demonstrating the widespread reliance on his updates.

Unfortunately, Al Ensirafi has also made enemies, particularly among supporters of the Rapid Support Forces, who are primarily responsible for the civil war, and diplomatic parties like TAQADUM. Blocking his account not only undermines his efforts but also restricts the flow of critical information to the global community and the Sudanese diaspora.

Why This Matters:

1. Freedom of Expression: Blocking Al Ensirafi's page silences a crucial voice that many rely on for truth and transparency. Social media platforms like Facebook should be champions of free speech, especially in times of crisis, enabling people to share their experiences and insights without fear of censorship.
2. Lifeline for Information: For many Sudanese people, Al Ensirafi’s updates have been a lifeline. With most news outlets in Sudan no longer operational, his page has become the primary source of reliable information about the conflict, helping people stay informed about the safety of their loved ones and the evolving situation in their homeland.
3. Psychological Support: Beyond providing news, Al Ensirafi’s daily live streams offer a sense of connection and comfort to those affected by the war. His calm and neutral reporting helps people feel less isolated and more supported during these incredibly challenging times, giving them strength to endure.
4. Exposing Corruption and Injustice: Al Ensirafi has courageously exposed corruption and human rights abuses, shedding light on the actions of corrupt leaders, parties, and militias. His work empowers people with knowledge, fostering a more informed and active citizenry that can push for positive change.
5. Community and Solidarity: His page has built a community of followers who find solace in shared experiences and mutual support. Blocking his account disrupts this community, weakening the collective resolve and morale of the Sudanese people who depend on his updates and live streams.

Our Request:

We respectfully request that Meta:

1. Unblock Al Ensirafi’s Facebook Page: Immediately restore his page to allow him to continue his important work of informing and educating the public about the situation in Sudan.
2. Review Content Moderation Policies: Ensure that the policies governing content moderation do not inadvertently silence critical voices that contribute to important global conversations, especially those related to human rights and conflict.
3. Engage with Impacted Communities: Establish a more transparent process for addressing concerns raised by users, particularly those in conflict zones, to prevent undue censorship and support the dissemination of vital information.

By restoring Al Ensirafi’s page, Meta would be supporting not just an individual but an entire community striving for peace, justice, and a better future for Sudan. We urge Meta to take immediate action and stand with us in defending the rights of the Sudanese people to stay informed and connected.