Gabon's Cracking Down on Dissent: A Pattern of Repression The recent indefinite suspension of major social media platforms in Gabon has sparked widespread concern among rights groups and activists.
The move, citing security concerns during anti government protests, is the latest installment in a long standing pattern of repression in the oil rich country, which continues to grapple with poverty, nepotism, and corruption.
Gabon's history of cracking down on dissent is well documented. In August 2023, just before a disputed election that saw Ali Bongo retain power, the internet was shut down for four days under military rule.