In this interview with Marie Noëlle Ada Meyo, deputy Spokesperson for the President of Gabon, the topic of a nationwide social media shutdown in Gabon is explored. The measure, which has left 2.5 million citizens unable to access platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, has sparked significant debate among the population, as many view it as an extreme response from a government that professes to support transparency and openness. The interview seeks to delve deeper into the reasoning behind such drastic action and its reception among Gabonese citizens.

Meyo emphasizes that the suspension was initiated by the High Authority for Communication, an independent body tasked with overseeing communication in Gabon. This assertion aims to clarify that the government is not solely responsible for the decision, highlighting a structure designed to regulate media. Nonetheless, the implications of such a shutdown are profound, as it raises concerns regarding freedom of expression and access to information in a country navigating political and social challenges.

The implications of the interview extend beyond the immediate situation, suggesting a broader conversation about digital rights and government accountability in Gabon. As many Gabonese citizens rely on social media for information and connection, the future of digital communication in the country remains uncertain amidst declining civic freedoms. This raises essential questions about how governance structures should balance regulation and the populace's right to connect and communicate freely.