Gabon Suspends Facebook and TikTok Amidst Social Unrest
Facebook and TikTok have been suspended in Gabon “until further notice” after the country’s media regulator accused the platforms of publishing content that exacerbates conflict and societal divisions. The suspensions, announced on Tuesday, coincide with ongoing social unrest including strikes by teachers and other civil servants.
Regulatory Action and Concerns
Gabon’s High Authority for Communication (HAC) cited the risk of “conflict-inducing excesses” as the reason for the suspensions . HAC spokesman Jean-Claude Mendome detailed concerns over “inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content” that allegedly undermines “human dignity, public morality, the honour of citizens, social cohesion, the stability of the Republic’s institutions, and national security” . The regulator likewise pointed to the spread of false information, cyberbullying, and unauthorized disclosure of personal data as contributing factors.
Wider Impact and Affected Platforms
Even as the initial announcement did not specify all affected platforms, reports indicate that Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram are currently restricted in Gabon . Connectivity monitor NetBlocks confirmed the restrictions on Wednesday .
Context of Social Unrest
The decision to suspend social media platforms comes less than a year after President Brice Oligui Nguema was elected and amidst a wave of social unrest. Teachers initiated strikes in December over pay and working conditions, and protests have since expanded to include other public sector employees in health, higher education, and broadcasting .
Opposition Response
Opposition leader Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze has criticized the social media crackdown, stating it imposes “a climate of fear and repression” . He called on civil groups and citizens to resist what he described as an attempt to stifle freedom of expression.
Historical Background
Prior to Oligui Nguema’s election, Gabon was ruled by the Bongo family for 55 years. A wage freeze implemented a decade ago under the previous administration has contributed to the current economic hardship faced by teachers and other civil servants . Recent arrests of protest leaders initially heightened fears, though they were later released.