Democratic Republic of Congo moves to block TikTok over rebel propaganda

The head of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s media regulatory body has vowed to shut down TikTok accounts spreading propaganda for the M23 rebel group, calling their presence a direct threat to national security.

Christian Bosembe, Chair of the Superior Council of Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC), confirmed ongoing discussions with TikTok’s leadership to enforce an immediate ban on accounts linked to the Alliance of Democratic Forces of Congo-M23 (AFC-M23), which he described as a terrorist organization.

Bosembe expressed outrage over what he called an unacceptable double standard: “Would a Hezbollah account operate openly in France? Would Al-Qaeda be allowed to post freely in the United States?”* He emphasized that while such platforms are restricted in Western nations, Congolese authorities have been forced to tolerate the dissemination of rebel propaganda on their soil.

The CSAC’s decision follows its mandate to protect public order and national cohesion, particularly in regions destabilized by armed conflict. Bosembe pointed to neighboring Gabon as a precedent, having already taken similar action against TikTok.

According to Kinshasa, the M23 rebels—accused of widespread civilian killings and mass displacements—operate with alleged support from neighboring Rwanda to exploit the DRC’s mineral wealth. Bosembe stressed that cutting off their digital platforms is not just a regulatory measure but a necessity to curb their influence.

“At some point, the Congolese state must assert itself,”* he declared. “For the state to command respect, these networks must be shut down.”*

The announcement has reignited debates on digital sovereignty in the DRC, where social media platforms are increasingly scrutinized for their role in amplifying conflict narratives. By targeting TikTok, Kinshasa signals a potential shift in how the government regulates online spaces during wartime, aiming to regain control over platforms that opponents exploit for propaganda.