Authorities in Pakistan implemented restrictions on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, amid escalating protests against the electoral process. Internet users across the country encountered difficulties accessing X due to a nationwide disruption that commenced late on Saturday during the protests.
The timing of the social media blockade coincided with demonstrations against the alleged election rigging, exacerbating political instability. X was blocked as the former ruling party organized nationwide protests to condemn the purported manipulation of the elections.
Although the Pakistan Telecom Authority refrained from issuing official statements regarding the restriction, the public became aware of the situation as such measures often occur during periods of political unrest. According to Netblocks, a global internet watchdog, live metrics indicated a new nationwide disruption to X/Twitter in Pakistan amidst escalating unrest and protests over allegations of electoral fraud. This followed a high-profile resignation and a public admission of vote manipulation by a senior election official.
Apart from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), several other political parties mobilized demonstrations to denounce the alleged election rigging. The Commissioner of Rawalpindi further fueled the unrest on Saturday by confessing to tampering with election results in 13 national and 26 provincial constituencies through the misuse of his administrative authority.
The social media blockade sparked concerns regarding the infringement of freedom of expression and access to information. Such actions by authorities during periods of political turmoil have drawn criticism for curbing citizens’ ability to communicate and voice their grievances. This situation underscores the intricate interplay between the government, social media platforms, and citizens amidst political protests and accusations of electoral malpractice.