Gabon has seen a suspension of major social media platforms, Facebook and TikTok, as the government responds to widespread anti-government protests. This decision, taken by Gabon's media regulator, is positioned as a necessary measure for national security, with officials claiming that online content had been instigating unrest. The spokesperson for the President described this move as a continuation of an ongoing deliberation aimed at fostering dialogue but has faced significant backlash from local opposition factions.

Opposition leaders, including Alain-Claude Bilie-Bi-Nze, former Prime Minister and head of the "Together for Gabon" party, have been vocal about their disapproval of the government's actions, arguing that suspending social media constitutes a severe infringement on constitutional rights and critical freedoms. This suspension has been described as an overarching tactic to mute dissenting voices and hinder free expression, coming at a time when protests against President Ali Bongo's government are increasingly being organized.

The implications of this action can be far-reaching, potentially stifling civil discourse and dissent while solidifying the government’s control over information dissemination. The international community and human rights observers will likely scrutinize Gabon’s approach to protests and freedom of speech, raising questions about the future of democratic processes in the nation amidst ongoing unrest.