Maduro bans Musk’s social media platform X in Venezuela, accuses it of spreading hate

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has imposed a 10-day ban on access to the social media platform X, owned by Elon Musk, alleging that the platform has been spreading hate and violence in the country.

Speaking at the Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas, Maduro declared that X had violated Venezuelan laws by promoting fascism, civil war, and hate speech.

Maduro stated that he had directed the National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL) to take X offline in Venezuela for 10 days, emphasizing the need to respect the country’s constitution and laws. He criticized Musk directly, telling him to “get out of Venezuela for 10 days.”

This move follows Maduro’s previous actions against social media platforms, including deleting WhatsApp live on air, accusing it of being used to incite violence. Maduro has also declared Musk as Venezuela’s main enemy, accusing him of election interference and inciting unrest in the country. Musk responded by challenging Maduro, even suggesting sending him to Mars if he won a duel.

Maduro’s decision has sparked debate and concerns over freedom of speech and the role of social media in Venezuela.