South Sudanese singer and songwriter Siliman Musa, popularly known as Nicky Prince of Hardlife Avenue Stars, has spoken out against the rise of online hate speech, calling for a more respectful digital environment.
In a recent interview, the singer expressed concern about the toxic culture brewing on social media platforms, where hate speech and negative commentary have become widespread especially among young people and within the creative industry.
“Those kinds of people are traumatic people,” Nicky said. “War and other traumatic experiences have aided them into hate speech.” He started.
The Hardlife Avenue frontman believes this culture of negativity is stifling both individual growth and the nation’s progress. He described how some users weaponize social media to tear others down all in pursuit of likes, attention, and viral fame.
“We can not grow on negative things,” he said. “Belittling us due to negativity is never the way out. People are hungry for fame and popularity.”
Calling out what he sees as emotional immaturity, the artist encouraged those fueling digital toxicity to self-reflect and choose growth over gossip. His words come at a time when the country is grappling with online spaces being misused for misinformation, cyberbullying, and personal attacks.
The timing of his message also coincides with lingering online rumors involving him and fellow artiste and protégé Suzy Nadu, which began circulating toward the end of last year. Though he’s largely avoided engaging publicly, his statements appear to address the wider culture of misinformation and personal attacks that frequently play out on South Sudan social media platforms.
Hate speech, defined as hostile or insulting communication targeted at individuals or groups based on their identity or beliefs, has become a growing concern in South Sudan’s post-conflict society. The digital space, particularly social media, often acts as a breeding ground for such speech, with unverified rumors, personal shaming, and cyberbullying affecting both public figures and everyday users.
The celebrated figure in the country’s music scene, the performer has long used his platform to push themes peace, love and identity. Even after the passing of his longtime collaborator Mantani, the remaining Hardlife Avenue Stars Nicky and Linus De Genius continues to carry the legacy forward with music that promotes peace, identity, and unity.
While remaining discreet about future plans, the hitmaker hinted at a consistent release schedule.
“A good cook doesnot announce when cooking something,” he smiled, before confirming a new song is expected to drop around June 17, with plans to release music on a monthly basis.
As conversations about digital responsibility gain momentum, South Sudanese singer words strike a powerful chord. building a better, more united society starts with how we treat each other both offline and online.
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