Gabon suspends social Media to combat ‘False Information’
Libreville, Gabon – The media regulatory body of Gabon has ordered an indefinite suspension of social media platforms, citing a surge in online content that it claims is deepening societal divisions.
In a televised address on Tuesday evening, the High Authority for Communication (HAC) announced the immediate restrictions, accusing users of spreading “false information,” engaging in “cyberbullying,” and violating privacy through the “unauthorised disclosure of personal data.”
By Wednesday afternoon, internet monitoring group NetBlocks confirmed that access to major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and WhatsApp, had been severely restricted across the Central African nation.
The move is the latest government intervention in digital spaces since General Brice Oligui Nguema assumed leadership.
He came to power following a military coup in 2023 and subsequently won a presidential election last year.
The HAC stated the measures would remain in place “until further notice” to prevent further conflict fuelled by online discourse.
