Gabon has suspended access to social media and major digital platforms nationwide until further notice, citing the spread of content deemed defamatory, hateful, and threatening to national security, authorities announced Tuesday evening.
Jean Claude Franck Mendome, spokesperson for the High Authority for Communication, said the decision follows observed violations of national and international laws, as well as platform moderation policies.
“The High Authority for Communication has decided to immediately suspend social media throughout Gabon until further notice,” he stated. The suspension has heavily affected widely used platforms including Meta, TikTok, and WhatsApp, with disruptions extending to messaging and calls.
The move comes under the leadership of Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who overthrew former President Ali Bongo Ondimba and won the presidency last year. While his election initially raised hopes for a return to constitutional democracy, critics claim the government is increasingly restricting independent media, journalists, and trade unionists.
Last year, a journalist and two trade unionists were imprisoned, raising international concerns about press freedom and civic rights.
The authorities maintain the suspension is necessary to curb content undermining human dignity, national institutions, and public order, though critics view the measure as part of a broader clampdown on dissent.