Gabon Suspends All Social Media Platforms Over False Information, Cyber Threats

The Gabonese government has ordered the suspension of social media platforms across the country “until further notice,” citing concerns that online content is fuelling unrest and exacerbating social divisions.

The High Authority for Communication (HAC) announced the move in a televised address on Tuesday evening, attributing it to the alleged spread of false information, cyberbullying, and the unauthorised publication of personal data.

HAC spokesperson Jean-Claude Mendome did not specify which platforms would be affected, but widely used applications such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok are expected to fall under the restriction, according to the BBC. While social media remained accessible on Wednesday morning, residents anticipate enforcement could begin at any moment.

The directive comes amid a sensitive political period in Gabon. The country has been undergoing a transition since the 2023 military coup led by Brice Oligui Nguema, who later won the 2024 presidential election with more than 90 percent of the vote, ending over five decades of Bongo family rule.

Since taking office, the 50-year-old president has promised sweeping reforms and a break from past practices, including the use of internet blackouts to control information, a common tactic under previous administrations. During the 2024 election, for instance, foreign and independent media were allowed to film the ballot counting process for the first time.

However, the administration now faces growing social and economic pressures. Teachers launched a strike in December over unpaid salaries and worsening working conditions, and similar grievances have spread to other public sectors, including healthcare and civil service, triggering wider unrest.

In his address, Mendome described the suspension as necessary to curb the repeated circulation of “inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content” online.

Many Gabonese are now awaiting clarity on the scope and duration of the suspension. With labour strikes continuing and social tensions unresolved, the coming days are expected to test both the government’s resolve and the resilience of the country’s digital economy.