Gabon’s media regulator has ordered the suspension of major social media platforms across the country “until further notice,” citing concerns that online content is fuelling division and threatening public order.
The decision, announced Tuesday, comes against the backdrop of mounting anti-government protests that have intensified political tensions in the Central African nation. Authorities argue that certain posts circulating on platforms such as Facebook and TikTok have contributed to unrest, misinformation, and heightened societal conflict.
By Wednesday, access to Facebook and TikTok was effectively cut off, according to journalists on the ground and independent monitoring groups. Users reported being unable to load feeds, publish content, or access messaging services linked to the affected platforms.
The regulator framed the move as a security measure, saying it was necessary to prevent further escalation of tensions during a sensitive political period. However, critics see it as part of a broader pattern of digital restrictions that governments across parts of Africa have increasingly deployed during moments of political instability.
The shutdown follows days of anti-government demonstrations, with protesters reportedly taking to the streets to voice grievances over governance and economic concerns. While officials insist the restrictions are temporary and aimed at maintaining stability, the absence of a clear timeline for restoration has raised concerns among civil society groups and digital rights advocates.
Human rights organizations have long warned that suspending social media during protests can undermine freedom of expression, restrict access to information, and disrupt business activities that rely heavily on digital platforms. For many small businesses and content creators in Gabon, Facebook and TikTok serve not only as communication tools but as critical economic lifelines.
The suspension also highlights the growing tension between governments and social media platforms across the continent. In recent years, several African states have implemented internet shutdowns or platform-specific bans during elections, protests, or security operations, often justifying the measures as necessary for national security.
For now, Gabonese citizens remain cut off from some of the world’s most widely used digital platforms, as authorities signal that access will only be restored once they are satisfied that online activity no longer poses what they describe as a threat to public stability.
Gabon suspends social media “Until further notice” as Anti-government protests escalate