Gabon bans social media over conflict fears

Gabon's media regulator suspended all social media platforms immediately, citing content that fuels conflict, division, defamation, hate speech, false information, cyberbullying, and data leaks. The High Authority for Communication stated this threatens national security, social cohesion, and democratic progress. President Brice Oligui Nguema faces ongoing unrest from striking teachers and public sector workers. While the ban aims to protect human dignity and public morality, it contradicts Gabon's constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression. The regulator did not specify which platforms are affected.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/18/social-media-suspended-in-gabon-until-further-notice/