Gabon Suspends Facebook and TikTok Amid Social Unrest. Libreville, Gabon — Facebook and TikTok have been suspended in Gabon until further notice, according to the country’s media regulator, the High Authority for Communication (HAC).
The decision follows accusations that the social media platforms have been spreading false information, cyberbullying, and unauthorized disclosure of personal data, which the regulator claims has exacerbated conflict and division within the nation.
The suspensions were announced on Tuesday, as Gabon grapples with ongoing social unrest, including strikes by teachers and other civil servants.
The government has cited the risk of “conflict-inducing excesses “as a rationale for the suspension, which has not specified whether other social media platforms are also affected. Gabon’s media regulator, Jean-Claude Mendome, stated in a televised statement that the suspension was necessary to protect “human dignity, public morality, the honor of citizens, social cohesion, the stability of the republic’s institutions, and national security.
Officials commented on the matter. “
The move comes amidst a backdrop of political instability in Gabon, following a military coup in August 2023 that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba.
The current president, Brice Oligui Nguema, who took power after the coup, has faced criticism over the country’s economic and political situation.
According to BBC Africa, the suspension is seen as a direct response to the spread of false information and cyberbullying, which have contributed to societal divisions. Reuters reports that the decision to suspend the platforms is also a response to ongoing protests and national security concerns.
As of the latest reports, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) remain accessible in the country.
The situation is being closely monitored, with further details expected to emerge in the coming days.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
