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Gabon suspends social media access citing misinformation risks
Gabon's media regulator has shut down access to major social media platforms, citing concerns over false information and online harassment. The High Authority for Communication (HAC) announced the move on Tuesday, warning that digital content was worsening divisions in the country.
Platforms restricted as monitoring group confirms outages
By Wednesday afternoon, internet monitoring organization NetBlocks reported that platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and WhatsApp had been blocked. Most local internet providers enforced the restrictions, though Gabon Telecom, the nation's largest telecom firm, allowed limited access.
Regulator cites hate speech and national security threats
In a televised statement, HAC spokesperson Jean-Claude Mendome said the suspension targeted the spread of "inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content" that threatened "human dignity, social cohesion, and national security." He warned such content could spark social conflict and undermine democratic progress.
"Freedom of expression remains a fundamental right in Gabon, but it must not jeopardize national unity or stability,"
Jean-Claude Mendome, HAC spokesperson
Businesses and citizens react to sudden blackout
The suspension has disrupted daily life in Gabon, where social media is widely used for commerce and communication. A Libreville restaurant owner, speaking anonymously to the BBC, said the ban would severely impact his business, as 40% of his customers discovered his restaurant through social media promotions.
"We're moving backward into underdevelopment. How can we compete globally if we're cut off from digital tools?"
Anonymous restaurant owner, Libreville
Not all citizens opposed the move. A taxi driver told the BBC he believed the government had valid reasons, stating, "There's no smoke without fire."
Unrest and political backdrop
The suspension comes as President Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema faces growing public discontent. Teachers and civil servants have been striking since December over pay and working conditions, while Nguema's government has struggled to address economic grievances.
Nguema, who seized power in a 2023 coup, won last year's presidential election with over 90% of the vote. His administration had previously pledged to end digital blackouts, a tactic used by the ousted Bongo regime to control information. During the 2023 election, independent media were allowed to film ballot counts for the first time.
Uncertainty over duration and next steps
The HAC did not specify when the suspension would end, leaving businesses and citizens in limbo. Analysts warn the move could further strain public trust in the government as Gabon grapples with economic and political challenges.
