Gabon's media regulator, the High Authority for Communication (HAC), announced on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the immediate and indefinite suspension of social media platforms nationwide. The decision, effective "until further notice," has led to widespread disruptions, with users reporting blocked access to major services including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and others.
In a televised statement, HAC spokesperson Jean-Claude Mendome cited the "recurrent dissemination of defamatory and insulting content," the "propagation of false information likely to disturb public order," cyberbullying, and the unauthorised disclosure of personal data as primary reasons for the shutdown. The regulator argued that such material undermines human dignity, social cohesion, the stability of state institutions, and national security.
"The High Authority for Communication orders the immediate suspension of social media platforms in Gabon until further notice," Mendome stated, instructing telecommunications operators and internet service providers to enforce the block. While the HAC did not explicitly name every affected platform in its public announcement, independent monitoring by groups like NetBlocks confirmed restrictions on Meta-owned services (Facebook, Instagram), TikTok, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter) as of Wednesday morning.
The move comes amid growing protests in Gabon over the high cost of living, teacher strikes, and dissatisfaction with the transitional government of President Brice Oligui Nguema, who took power following a 2023 coup and won election in 2024. Authorities appear to view social media as a channel for amplifying unrest, spreading misinformation, and coordinating demonstrations—concerns that have prompted similar restrictions in other African countries during periods of political tension.
Internet freedom advocates and digital rights groups have condemned the blanket suspension as disproportionate and a violation of freedom of expression. The regulator acknowledged that "freedom of expression, including freedom of comment and criticism," remains a fundamental right under Gabonese law, but insisted the measure was necessary to prevent "conflict-inducing excesses" and protect public morality.
Gabon, a Central African nation of approximately 2.4 million people, has seen increasing internet penetration in recent years, with social media serving as a primary source of news, civic engagement, and political discourse. The suspension has already impacted communication, business activities, and information flow, particularly in urban centers like Libreville.
No timeline has been provided for lifting the restrictions, and the HAC has indicated it will monitor the situation closely. Telecom providers have begun complying, though some users have reported workarounds via VPNs or alternative networks. The decision echoes previous internet shutdowns and social media blocks in the region, often justified on security grounds during elections, protests, or crises.
The Gabonese government has not yet commented further, but the timing—amid ongoing teacher-led demonstrations and economic pressures—suggests authorities are seeking to limit the rapid spread of dissent and unverified claims online. Human rights organizations, including Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and Access Now, have called for transparency and an immediate reversal, warning that such measures erode democratic space and hinder accountability.
As the suspension enters its second day, residents and observers are watching closely to see whether the blackout will be lifted soon or extended amid continued unrest. The development highlights the delicate balance between national security and digital rights in Gabon and across Africa.
