Equatorial Guinea Cracks Down on WhatsApp After Baltasar Engonga’s Videos Leak
The recent actions of Baltasar Engonga, Director General of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency, have impacted not only marriages in the Central African country but also the lives of everyday citizens, as the government imposed restrictions on WhatsApp.
Equatorial Guinea Government Restricts WhatsApp to Limit Content Sharing
In what appears to be a unique move, the government intervened to curb the spread of videos showing Engonga having relations with the wives of both prominent and ordinary individuals. Authorities directed telecommunications operators to implement measures restricting access to such content.
Engonga’s activities might have stayed under wraps if not for a fraud investigation that led to searches of his home and office. During the search, ANIF officials discovered CDs revealing his encounters with various married women.
Citizens told Ahora EG that they’ve experienced internet restrictions, particularly with mobile data, preventing them from sharing photos, videos, and audio files. However, users with WiFi access can still share content freely.
Also read: Mihlali Ndamase Was Chowed By Equatorial Guinea Politician Baltasar Ebang Engonga?
Public Calls Out Government for Lack of Transparency
Some citizens criticized the government’s decision, questioning if it was justified to restrict the entire nation over the actions of a few individuals.
“Should an entire country pay for the actions of a few? The likely decision to restrict access to essential communication functions seems disproportionate and punitive, affecting thousands of users of these platforms who, in addition to serving them for entertainment, also use them for their work and/or educational activities,” the source said.
Another citizen expressed frustration over the lack of communication from officials.
“Is it really fair that everyone should suffer the consequences of the actions of a few? The authorities have not yet provided any explanation for the reasons behind this restriction, as well as the duration of the same,” the source said.