A coalition of Gabonese civil society groups has filed legal complaints in Libreville, accusing unidentified actors of escalating cyberattacks targeting local users, including widespread breaches of WhatsApp and Facebook accounts.
Over the past few weeks, the organizations have documented nearly fifty reports from citizens across diverse backgrounds, all linked to the recent surge in digital intrusions. Their investigation points to a disturbing trend: the widespread adoption of virtual private networks (VPNs) as a direct response to the ongoing social media blackout imposed since February 17.
« Most of these attacks originate from foreign numbers, typically beginning with country codes +500 or +600. This strongly suggests the perpetrators are operating outside Gabon’s borders», noted Patrice Thérence Mezui, president of the National Human Rights League and spokesperson for the coalition.
The collective argues that while cyber threats were once rare in Gabon, they have surged since the High Authority of Communication (HAC) enforced the social media ban. They contend the measure violates constitutional protections outlined in the chapter on fundamental freedoms.
«The courts have dismissed our cases, citing administrative immunity as the reason for their inaction», Mezui explained. After successive legal setbacks, the coalition escalated its challenge to the Supreme Court, awaiting a definitive ruling on the matter.
Demands for immediate restoration of social media access
The civil society alliance argues the prolonged suspension of social platforms has left citizens vulnerable to cybercrime. They are calling for an immediate end to the blackout, which has evolved from a temporary measure into a near-permanent restriction. Additionally, they urge the President to ratify the recently passed social media legislation and initiate national dialogue to resolve the ongoing crisis.
The HAC justified the blackout as a necessary step to combat misinformation, cyber harassment, and hate speech. However, rights groups counter that the policy is excessive and undermines the rule of law.
