WhatsApp service has been disrupted across Pakistan as the country braces for a planned protest by the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), calling for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Global internet watchdog, NetBlocks, confirmed the disruption, reporting that WhatsApp backends have been restricted in the country.
NetBlocks posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “Confirmed: Live metrics show WhatsApp backends have been restricted in #Pakistan, corroborating reports of media sharing issues; the measure comes as authorities tighten security ahead of protests planned by opposition party PTI calling for the release of former PM Imran Khan.”
A graphic shared by NetBlocks highlighted that WhatsApp’s reachability had dropped to 0% for most internet service providers in Pakistan. However, it was noted that the app remains accessible on around 50% of servers connected to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL).
The disruption comes as PTI plans a major protest in Islamabad demanding the release of Imran Khan, who remains incarcerated. The government has imposed strict security measures, including the blocking of certain communication services, to control the potential impact of the demonstration.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior clarified that Wi-Fi and mobile data services would be suspended only in areas of heightened security concern. “Mobile data and Wi-Fi service will be suspended only in areas of security concerns,” the spokesperson stated on Saturday. “Internet and mobile services will continue to operate as usual in the rest of the country.”
As tensions rise ahead of the PTI protest, these internet disruptions are part of broader efforts by authorities to limit communication and media sharing in areas where unrest is anticipated.
