Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze

Stories

African governments expand social media shutdowns during unrest

Opposed the ban as an abuse of power; the suspension was lifted on 24 October 2026

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 Oct 25

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 Oct 25

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 Oct 25