Freedom of speech is a fundamental right which has to be enjoyed by all citizens as provided in the constitution. However, the practice of this freedom in a manner that prejudices or infringes the rights and freedom of other citizens is considered abusive. In an era of social media platforms like Instagram, Tweeter, Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube, the freedom of political speech is granted to citizens as well as regulated by the state and owners of social media companies.
In my opinion, it is the right of social media companies to regulate what is posted on their platforms despite being transformed into public places. They should ban those whose statements are extreme. For example, bloggers tend to post comments which directly attack leaders on social media based on allegations spreading propaganda. Moreover, they go on to disclose sensitive information to the public concerning individuals or the state. Besides, they insult leaders or political rivals on these platforms. Consequently, they infringe on the right to privacy of others and spread false information.
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Hence, the government should not regulate social media companies regarding the postings on their platforms. They are private entities, thus, they have to run their businesses according to their regulations as long as they comply with the Company Act. This is because they are held liable and can be sued in a court of law if a case is filed against them regarding what is posted on the platforms. Hence, this has cost implications for the payment of damages to the plaintiff.
Mark Zuckerberg, the Facebook CEO, had originally dismissed cautions that Russia was using Facebook to spread propaganda regarding the 2016 U.S. election (Tusikov, 2017). However, he made an apology and presented plans and tools intended at combating false information on the platform. Similarly, Silicon Valley was called upon to regulate social media platforms due to the increasing scandal of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election. As such, these companies are free to regulate what is posted on their platforms due to the risks people expose them to despite infringing on people’s freedom of speech.
Reference
Tusikov , N. (2017). Regulate social media platforms before it’s too late. Retrieved from http://theconversation.com/regulate-social-media-platforms-before-its-too-late-86984
