A significant debate has emerged in Gabon following the introduction of a new ordinance aimed at regulating social media usage. Although the document is dated February 26, its contents only began circulating online last week, sparking immediate concern among the public.
Identification requirements under article 4
The most contentious part of the legislation is Article 4, which officially prohibits the use of pseudonyms on digital platforms. Under these new rules, every social media user must be clearly identifiable by providing their full legal name and their Personal Identification Number (NIP). For corporate entities, the law mandates the disclosure of official trade register information.
Bienvenue Effayong, a content creator known by the moniker “Bitome” (meaning “troubles” in the local tongue) and a supporter of the current administration, has voiced his approval of the measure. Having faced frequent attacks from anonymous profiles, he believes the law is a necessary step toward accountability.
“I am entirely in favor of this move,” Effayong stated, arguing that people often hide behind fraudulent accounts to spread insults, engage in defamation, or attempt to destabilize the country. He emphasizes that everyone should now take responsibility for their online actions.
Concerns over democratic freedoms
However, the move has faced stiff opposition from figures like Marcel Libama, a former member of the Transition parliament. Libama views the ordinance as a direct assault on the freedom of expression guaranteed by the nation’s Constitution.
According to Libama, this regulation represents a collapse of democratic values and free speech within Gabon. He argues that such restrictive measures are unnecessary and conflict with the fundamental rights of the citizenry.
Current legal status and objectives
Since the ordinance was enacted during a parliamentary intersession, it has gone into effect immediately. Nevertheless, it must still undergo review by Parliament, which retains the power to ratify, amend, or discard the text. It is important to note that social media services have been officially suspended in Gabon since last February.
The government maintains that these measures are intended to safeguard the youth and curb digital abuses, such as the spread of insults and efforts to undermine national institutions.