In brief
Vastly‑popular social‑media services were blocked in Gabon from Feb. 17 for eight months amid political unrest. The High Communication Authority announced Saturday that the ban is lifted, citing earlier concerns over content that could inflame divisions. The decision was greeted by users who’d been using VPNs to circumvent the black‑out, while critics warn the U‑turn may simply reset state control over the internet. The move takes place as President Brice Oligui Nguema steadies a government that won last year’s contested poll with over 90% of the vote.
Gabon has announced the removal of an 8‑month‑long ban on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and other platforms, a decision that originated as a crackdown on perceived divisive content.
The High Communication Authority (HAC) made the U‑turn in a televised statement on Saturday, stating the ban was imposed on 17 February amid growing unrest after President Brice Oligui Nguema’s contested victory. The regulator cited online “content fueling conflict” as the reason for the shutdown.
Users across the 2.5‑million‑strong nation turned to VPNs to circumvent the block, while civil‑service and teacher strikes highlighted the widespread pushback. The decision was met with relief from the younger demographic that uses social media for business and recreation, but critics say it is a concession to state‑run censorship.
The move marks a shift in Gabon's digital policy, where previous governments used internet blackouts to maintain control. With the restoration, the country will need to watch how the platforms operate amid continued political tensions.
