Gabon's HAC suspends Infos 241 for relaying activist's remarks against President

The suspension follows the publication of an article on August 9, 2026, at 2:07 PM, which relayed statements by activist Landry Mbeng, also known as Lanlaire. The HAC accused Infos 241 of disseminating unverified and offensive accusations against the President of the Republic, who is also the head of government, and his family. The regulatory body stated that the content was "injurious, scandalous, and of rare virulence."

The HAC emphasized that Infos 241 could not absolve itself of responsibility by merely reproducing a third party's remarks, especially since the media reportedly acknowledged the unfounded nature of the insinuations. The decision cites Article 44 of the Communication Code, which holds journalists personally responsible for their writings and disseminated information, requiring accuracy and the avoidance of unverified facts. The HAC also referenced Ordinance No. 0011/PR/2026 of February 26, 2026, which regulates social media use in Gabon, stating that anyone involved in creating or sharing illicit content can be held responsible for damages.

The HAC reiterated that journalistic ethics mandate fact-checking and that freedom of the press must be exercised responsibly, respecting dignity, privacy, honor, and social cohesion. The communiqué did not specify the duration of the suspension or the conditions for its lifting.