A significant debate is currently unfolding in Gabon concerning recently introduced regulations governing social media usage. The controversy escalated following the publication of a decree outlining these new rules, originally dated February 26th but only widely circulated online last week.
At the heart of the concern for many Gabonese citizens is Article 4 of this new mandate, which explicitly prohibits the use of pseudonyms. Moving forward, every individual engaging with social media platforms must be clearly identifiable. This requires users to provide their full name, surname, and even their personal identification number (NIP). For corporate entities, the decree stipulates the necessity of registering their commercial details.
Bienvenue Effayong, a content producer with strong ties to the Gabonese government and widely recognized online by his pseudonym « Bitome » (meaning « the problems » in the local dialect), has frequently been the target of aggressive online attacks from anonymous users due to his public stances.
Effayong views the new legislation as highly beneficial. « I wholeheartedly agree, even 1,000 percent, because people often hide behind fake accounts, false names, and fabricated profiles to spread defamation, hurl insults, and even instigate acts of destabilization, simply believing they are anonymous. From now on, everyone will be held accountable for their actions. »
Erosion of free expression
In stark contrast, Marcel Libama, a former Member of Parliament during the transitional period, argues that the decree represents a severe infringement upon freedom of expression, a right constitutionally guaranteed. « This ordinance signifies the collapse of free expression and democracy within our nation. We have no need for such a restrictive decree, which is in many ways at odds with our Constitution, » he asserted.
The decree, enacted during a parliamentary recess, became immediately enforceable. Nevertheless, it must still be presented to Parliament, which holds the authority to amend, ratify, or reject it. It is also worth noting that social media platforms have been officially inaccessible in Gabon since last February.
The Gabonese authorities state their primary objective is to safeguard the nation’s youth and curb online abuses, specifically addressing issues like defamation, offensive language, and attempts to undermine national institutions.
