Gabon enforces real-name policy for all social media users

A significant controversy has emerged in Gabon following the introduction of a new ordinance aimed at regulating digital interactions. Although the text is dated February 26, its details only became public knowledge last week, sparking intense debate across the country.

The end of online anonymity in Gabon

The primary source of concern for citizens is Article 4 of the new regulation, which officially prohibits the use of pseudonyms on social media platforms. Under these new rules, every user must be clearly identifiable. This requires individuals to display their full legal names and provide their Personal Identification Number (NIP). For businesses, the mandate includes the mandatory disclosure of their commercial registration information.

Bienvenue Effayong, a pro-government content creator famously known by the moniker “Bitome” (a local term for “problems”), has expressed strong support for the measure. Often the target of anonymous online attacks, Effayong believes the law is a vital step toward accountability.

“I fully endorse this move because many people hide behind fictitious accounts and fake identities to spread slander, insults, and even attempt to destabilize the country,” he stated. He emphasized that the era of hiding behind anonymity is over and that everyone must now own their digital footprint.

Concerns over democratic freedoms

However, the legislation has faced sharp criticism from figures like Marcel Libama, a former member of the Transition Parliament. Libama argues that the ordinance represents a dangerous shift away from the protections guaranteed by the nation’s Constitution.

“This decree signals a collapse of free speech and democratic principles in our nation,” Libama warned. He characterized the new rules as “liberticide” and fundamentally at odds with established civil liberties.

Legal status and government objectives

Because the ordinance was issued while Parliament was in recess, it became enforceable immediately. Nevertheless, it must still undergo a parliamentary review process where it could be ratified, adjusted, or completely dismissed. This legislative shift occurs in a context where social media has been officially suspended in Gabon since last February.

Government officials justify the strict measures as a necessary effort to protect younger generations and curb digital abuses, such as defamation and threats to institutional stability.