Gabon’s media regulator on Tuesday announced the suspension of social media platforms “until further notice,” blaming online content for fuelling division and conflict in the country.
Bellnews reports that the decision was announced by the High Authority for Communication, which ordered the immediate shutdown of social media operations nationwide.
In a televised statement, the spokesman of the communications body, Jean-Claude Mendome, said the move became necessary due to the negative impact of content circulating online.
He said “inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content” had been undermining “human dignity, public morality, the honour of citizens, social cohesion, the stability of the Republic’s institutions, and national security.”
The spokesman also cited the spread of false information, cyberbullying and unauthorised disclosure of personal data as additional reasons for the action.
“These actions are likely, in the case of Gabon, to generate social conflict, destabilise the institutions of the Republic, and seriously jeopardise national unity, democratic progress, and achievements,” he added.
The regulator, however, did not specify the particular social media platforms affected by the ban.
Despite the suspension, the communications authority maintained that freedom of expression remains protected under Gabonese law.
According to the statement, “freedom of expression, including freedom of comment and criticism,” remains “a fundamental right enshrined in Gabon.”
Bellnews reports that the decision comes less than a year after the election of Brice Oligui Nguema as President of Gabon, as the country grapples with a wave of social unrest.
Teachers began a nationwide strike in December over pay and working conditions, while protests have since spread to other public sectors, including health, higher education and broadcasting.
According to AFP, civil servants in several sectors have also threatened industrial action, raising concerns about stability and governance in the country.