Christian Bosembe, head of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) Higher Council of Audiovisual and Communications (CSAC), has declared that TikTok will be blocked imminently to curb propaganda linked to the rebel group AFC-M23.
Negotiations with the social media giant are already underway to enforce this decision. The move comes as Bosembe condemns the platform for hosting content that threatens national security, particularly accounts tied to Corneille Nangaa, a figure accused of terrorism.
Where would a terrorist organization’s social media thrive?
In a pointed critique, Bosembe questioned why TikTok allows platforms for groups like Hezbollah in France or Al-Qaeda in the United States, but not in the DRC. He emphasized that such platforms are being misused to spread propaganda for rebel leaders accused of atrocities against civilians.
The CSAC’s decision reflects a growing frustration over the lack of accountability from tech platforms in conflict zones. Bosembe stressed that the DRC must assert its sovereignty, declaring, “At some point, the Congolese state must simply respect itself. And for that, these networks must be shut down.”
The announcement follows the example set by Gabon, which previously banned TikTok to maintain public order. The AFC-M23 rebels, accused of mass civilian killings and resource exploitation in eastern DRC, have allegedly relied on digital platforms to amplify their influence. Kinshasa alleges Rwandan involvement in orchestrating these operations.
Bosembe’s stance underscores a broader debate on digital sovereignty in the DRC. With the conflict intensifying, the government aims to regain control over social media platforms it claims are amplifying enemy narratives. This decision could signal a shift in how the DRC regulates online content during wartime.
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