The government of Equatorial Guinea has imposed a ban on sharing multimedia content, including photos, videos, and audio files, on WhatsApp using mobile data.
According to local news outlet, Ahora EG, this move has left many citizens frustrated, as they are now only able to share such content over WiFi networks.
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The restriction is part of new directives issued to telecommunications companies, which are required to implement measures that prevent access to inappropriate content.
This decision comes in the wake of a scandal involving Baltasar Engonga, the Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF).
Engonga, a prominent economist, is at the center of a sex scandal that has drawn public attention after it was revealed he had recorded sexual encounters with the wives of high-ranking officials, including those of the Vice President and the Inspector General of Police.
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The controversy emerged during an investigation into fraud allegations against Engonga, leading to an unannounced search by ANIF officials at his home and office.
Over 400 videos of these encounters, filmed with consent, were found and subsequently leaked online, causing a stir on social media.
In response to the scandal, Vice President Teddy Nguema has announced plans to install surveillance cameras in all state offices.
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This initiative aims to strengthen monitoring and ensure greater compliance with public service regulations, addressing misconduct among government officials.