Gabon Indefinitely Suspends Social Media Over Stability Concerns

Gabon’s media regulatory body announced on Tuesday an indefinite suspension of social media platforms, citing concerns that online content is exacerbating division and unrest in the country.

In a televised address, the High Authority for Communication said the decision was prompted by the proliferation of “inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content” that threatens human dignity, public morality, social cohesion, and national stability. Spokesman Jean-Claude Mendome also highlighted the spread of false information, cyberbullying, and unauthorised sharing of personal data as key contributing factors.

“These actions risk sparking social conflict, destabilising institutions, and undermining national unity and democratic progress,” Mendome added.

While the statement did not specify which platforms would be affected, the regulator reaffirmed that freedom of expression, including the right to comment and criticise, remains a fundamental right in Gabon.