Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze

Stories

African governments expand social media shutdowns during unrest

Leading opposition to social media ban

Gabon's media regulator announced the indefinite suspension of Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram on February 17, 2026, as teachers entered their third month of strikes and civil servants threatened walkouts. The government cited false information and cyberbullying; the opposition called it a constitutional violation designed to suppress dissent. VPN demand spiked 8,000% within hours.

Updated May 29

Notable Quotes

This incomprehensible social media crackdown is a disproportionate abuse of power that goes against the constitution.

from African governments expand social media shutdowns during unrest · Updated May 29

I call on civil groups and all Gabonese people dedicated to freedom to mobilise and block this liberty-destroying excess.

from African governments expand social media shutdowns during unrest · Updated May 29