Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The High Authority for Communication of Gabon has ordered the immediate suspension of social media platforms across the country, triggering strong reactions from opposition figures, media professionals, and online entrepreneurs concerned about its economic and democratic implications.
The decision, announced on Tuesday, February 17, and read on state television by HAC spokesperson Jean-Claude Mendome, took effect nationwide and will remain in force until further notice.
Popular platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok have since experienced major disruptions, with users reporting difficulties in accessing services, making calls, and downloading files.
In its statement, the communications regulator justified the suspension by citing what it described as the “recurrent dissemination” of inappropriate, defamatory, hateful, and insulting content on social networks.
The HAC said such material undermines human dignity, social cohesion, institutional stability, and national security.
The authority also accused both users and platform operators of failing to comply with national laws and international regulations, pointing to the spread of false information, cyberharassment, and public order disturbances as key concerns.
Presidency spokesperson Théophane Nzamé-Nzé-Biyoghe defended the measure, describing it as “the extension of a reflection of several months, necessary to raise the debate and send a strong signal.”
However, the suspension has drawn swift condemnation from opposition leaders. Former Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze, leader of the Together for Gabon party, denounced the move as a “serious violation of fundamental freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.”
Civil society actors and journalists also expressed alarm. Aziz Adewale Tchandi, a member of the Union of Journalists of the Free African Press, said the measure was surprising given the central role social media plays in livelihoods and the digital economy.
According to official figures, Gabon’s digital economy accounts for about 5 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, representing more than 250 billion CFA francs.
The economic fallout is already being felt, particularly among online businesses and media organizations heavily dependent on social platforms. Lionnel Mbeng, editor-in-chief of Gabon Média Time, said social media traffic is essential for the survival of online outlets.
“It’s like having a patient dependent on oxygen. Social networks are that oxygen. A day without them is like taking the breath away from online media,” he said.
Small-scale entrepreneurs have also voiced distress. Joséphine Bouanga, who sells fish and clothing online, said her family’s livelihood is at risk.
“I live from social networks through my online sales. When they cut them off, how will I feed my family?” she asked.
Jacques Ndoudi, a graphic design business owner, warned that restricting access would significantly harm young entrepreneurs.
“When you restrict networks, it slows down business. If we are banned from accessing WhatsApp, it will be really complicated for young entrepreneurs like us,” he said.
Communication Minister Germain Biahodjow acknowledged the negative economic consequences while expressing government support for the regulator’s decision.
“Concerned about the economic impact this decision may have on online trade flows, the government is working to remedy this as quickly as possible,” he said in a statement.
Political leaders have also raised concerns about the broader implications for democracy. Anges-Kévin Nzigou, president of the Socialist Democratic Front, described the suspension as “disproportionate” and “deeply worrying.”
“Suspending social networks across the national territory, in a tense social climate, adds frustration to frustration,” he said. “Freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution and by Gabon’s international commitments.”
As of Thursday, February 19, the restrictions remain in place, with authorities yet to indicate when full access to social media platforms will be restored.
