Facebook, TikTok inaccessible as Gabon shuts down social media

Facebook and TikTok were no longer available in Gabon on Wednesday after the media regulator announced their suspension because of the risk of conflict-inducing excesses. The High Authority for Communication imposed the immediate suspension of social media platforms in Gabon in a televised statement.

The communications body spokesman said the "spread of false information", "cyberbullying" and "unauthorized disclosure of personal data" as reasons for the decision. However, the regulator said freedom of expression remained a fundamental right enshrined in Gabon.