Solomon Islands 'planning Facebook ban'

Facebook is widely used in the Solomons, where the population of 700,000 is spread among rugged volcanic islands and coral atolls, making communications difficult. — AFP

HONIARA: The Solomon Islands is reportedly planning to ban Facebook after receiving harsh criticism on the social media platform, sparking outrage among rights groups and opposition figures in the Pacific island nation.

Communication Minister Peter Shanel Agovaka drafted plans for a temporary ban this week and discussions were underway with Internet service providers on how to implement it, the Solomon Times reported.