Equatorial Guinea’s government has taken drastic measures to curb the spread of “inappropriate content” by restricting citizens from downloading and sharing multimedia files on WhatsApp via mobile data. This decision comes on the heels of a shocking sex scandal involving Baltasar Engonga, Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency, and wives of high-ranking officials.
The scandal, which has sparked widespread outrage, involves over 400 explicit videos featuring Engonga and prominent individuals, including his brother’s wife, his cousin, the President’s sister, and at least 20 ministers’ wives. Although the footage was reportedly recorded with consent, its leak online has generated immense controversy.
Citizens are now lamenting the WhatsApp restriction, which forces them to rely on WiFi networks to share photos, videos, and audio files. Many consider this measure excessive and punitive, affecting thousands of users who rely on these platforms for work, education, and entertainment.
In response to the scandal, Vice President Teddy Nguema announced plans to install surveillance cameras in all state offices to combat misconduct among officials. However, the WhatsApp restriction has raised questions about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
