The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has suspended access to social media platforms, including TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and the Google Play Store, in response to information circulating about the ongoing conflict in the eastern part of the country.
NetBlocks Confirms Shutdown
Isik Mater, Director of Research at the UK-based digital rights organization NetBlocks, confirmed the shutdown.
“We can confirm that TikTok, X, and the Google Play Store have all been blocked in the DRC,” Mater told Jeune Afrique.
NetBlocks noted on February 3, 2025, that blocking Google Play Store access may be an attempt to prevent users from downloading Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass the restrictions.
Government Response and Technical Excuse
Minister of National Security Jacquemain Shabani, speaking during a press conference on February 3, 2025, attributed the shutdown to a technical issue.
“We assure the public that this will be resolved quickly. There were technical problems, but we are working to address them,” he stated.
However, critics and human rights activists argue that the decision infringes on citizens’ rights to access information and freedom of expression, as enshrined in Articles 23 and 24 of the DRC Constitution.
Media Control and Growing Distrust
The shutdown comes at a time when public trust in government communications is waning, particularly following contradictory statements before and after the capture of Goma by M23.
Christian Bosembe, head of the National Media Regulatory Council, previously warned about TikTok becoming a propaganda tool. He reportedly exerted pressure on journalists to avoid reporting M23’s successes, implying that such reports were acts of betrayal against the state.
⚠️ Confirmed: Metrics show the Google Play Store is now restricted in DR Congo in an apparent bid to stop users downloading VPN apps to bypass restrictions targeting X and TikTok; the incident comes amid unrest, the burning of embassies, and a rebel occupation in the east #RDC pic.twitter.com/O37O82nCsf
— NetBlocks (@netblocks) February 3, 2025
“It’s unfortunate that TikTok is becoming a tool for misleading propaganda in our country,” Bosembe wrote on X on January 19, 2025.
Civil Society and Analysts Speak Out
Julie Owono, Director of Internet Sans Frontières, condemned the government’s justification for the social media ban.
“This is a move by weak leaders seeking to stifle free expression. While misinformation is a concern, it is not a valid reason to block platforms like X and TikTok,” she said.
Congolese citizens have called for the immediate restoration of social media access to stay informed about the ongoing conflict and other developments.
Analysts emphasize that transparency is more effective than operating in secrecy. They argue that fostering open communication helps build trust and stability, even in challenging times.
As the conflict continues, the government’s actions to control information flow are raising questions about its commitment to democracy and human rights.
