Gabon’s media regulator announced on Tuesday the suspension of social media platforms “until further notice,” citing content online that has fueled social tensions and division.
Jean-Claude Mendome, spokesperson for the High Authority for Communication, said in a televised statement that “inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content” was threatening public morality, human dignity, social cohesion, and the stability of national institutions. He also highlighted issues such as the spread of false information, cyberbullying, and unauthorized disclosure of personal data as key factors behind the move.
“These actions risk generating social conflict, destabilizing institutions, and undermining national unity, democratic progress, and achievements,” Mendome said. The regulator did not specify which platforms would be affected but stressed that freedom of expression, including the right to comment and criticize, remains a fundamental right in Gabon.
The decision comes less than a year after President Brice Oligui Nguema took office and amid growing social unrest. Teachers began striking in December over pay and working conditions, and similar protests have since spread to other public sector employees, including health, higher education, and broadcasting staff.
