Opposition politicians and businesses in Gabon have voiced strong criticism following the government’s decision to suspend access to several social media platforms.
HAC Announcement
On Tuesday, the High Authority for Communication (HAC) announced restrictions on services including Instagram and YouTube, citing concerns that online posts were fueling conflict and division.
Connectivity watchdog NetBlocks confirmed on Wednesday that multiple platforms were affected, including Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram.
HAC spokesman Jean-Claude Mendome said in a televised statement that social media content was undermining human dignity, public morality, social cohesion, and national security.
“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,” Mendome stated.
Opposition Reaction
Former prime minister and opposition leader Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze condemned the move as unconstitutional and disproportionate.
“These days many businesses, SMEs, young entrepreneurs, survive solely thanks to social media. It’s not just some kind of gimmick for having fun anymore. It’s really a work tool,” he said.
He added that the HAC had “absolutely no authority” to impose such restrictions, calling the decision an abuse of power.
Business Impact
Local businesses and content creators have also expressed alarm. Mister Wils, a Gabonese TikTok creator with nearly 100,000 followers, said the ban jeopardizes contracts with international partners.
“In Gabon, we already struggle with monetising social networks. Now, clearly, we can no longer respond favourably to our partners,” he explained.
Restaurants, SMEs, and digital entrepreneurs echoed similar concerns, warning that the suspension would negatively affect their operations.
Political Context
The ban comes as President Brice Oligui Nguema faces growing unrest, with teachers on strike and other civil servants threatening to follow suit. Nguema, who seized power in a 2024 coup ending five decades of Bongo family rule, pledged reforms after winning elections in April 2025.
Conclusion
The suspension of social media platforms has sparked widespread backlash in Gabon, highlighting tensions between government efforts to control online discourse and the reliance of citizens and businesses on digital platforms for communication and economic survival.
