The Government of the Republic of Gabon Tuesday announced the suspension of Social media platforms in the country until further notice,
A statement by the spokesperson for the High Authority for Communication said “defamatory, hateful and insulting content” circulating online is stoking conflict within society. He added that the “spread of false information,” “cyberbullying,” and the “unauthorised disclosure of personal data” are destabilising government institutions and threatening democratic progress.
However, it emphasised that “freedom of expression, including freedom of comment and criticism,” remains “a fundamental right enshrined in Gabon.”
The development comes amid mounting tensions between authorities and segments of the public.
President Brice Oligui Nguema’s one year presidency has seen waves of social unrest
Teachers have been on strike since December over pay and working conditions, with demonstrations spreading to other public sector workers, including those in health, higher education and broadcasting.
