Gabon Suspends Social Media Amid Rising Unrest

Gabon’s media regulator has ordered the suspension of social media platforms “until further notice,” citing content that it says is fuelling division and unrest in the country.

The High Authority for Communication (HAC) announced the move on Tuesday. Spokesman Jean-Claude Mendome said the decision was prompted by “inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content” that undermined “human dignity, public morality, social cohesion, and national security.”

Reasons for Suspension

Mendome also cited the spread of false information, cyberbullying, and the unauthorised disclosure of personal data as factors behind the ban.

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“These actions are likely… to generate social conflict, destabilise institutions, and seriously jeopardise national unity, democratic progress, and achievements,” he said during a televised statement.

The regulator did not name specific platforms affected but emphasised that freedom of expression, including criticism and commentary, remains a fundamental right in Gabon.

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Social Unrest in Gabon

Less than a year after taking office, President Brice Oligui Nguema is facing his first wave of social unrest. Teachers began striking in December over pay and working conditions, and the protests have since spread to other public sectors, including health, higher education, and broadcasting.

The move to suspend social media follows growing concern from authorities that online content could exacerbate tensions in the country.

Prosper Okoye

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Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa

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Gabon Suspends Social Media Amid Rising Unrest