Senegal’s communications minister announced on Wednesday that access to the TikTok social media app has been suspended until further notice. This decision comes just days after the country restricted mobile internet usage in response to opposition protests.
The minister’s statement highlighted concerns that the TikTok application has been favored by individuals with malicious intentions, using it to disseminate hateful and subversive messages that threaten the country’s stability.
In addition to the TikTok suspension, Senegal has also imposed restrictions on internet services since Monday, citing similar reasons for the action.
These measures were implemented following the charging of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko with various offenses, including plotting an insurrection and criminal conspiracy.
Throughout the year, Senegal has witnessed sporadic violent protests, with opposition supporters alleging that President Macky Sall is employing charges against Sonko to prevent him from participating in the upcoming elections.
