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After the Pakistani government hinted at the possible shutdown of internet services in various parts of the country on polling day, February 8, citing security concerns, an international watchdog has expressed concern over this decision. The watchdog urges the government to ensure access to the internet on that day.
Caretaker Interior Minister Gohar Ejaz, during a press conference on Tuesday, hinted at the suspension of internet services on Election Day, citing incidents of violence in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In response to this, Amnesty International, along with several other human rights organizations, has called on Pakistani authorities to guarantee uninterrupted access to the internet and digital communication platforms for everyone across the country during the general elections. Other organizations have also urged the government to refrain from ordering the disruption of telecommunication services, social media platforms, or other digital communication platforms throughout the elections.
🇵🇰PAKISTAN: Amnesty International, along with several other human rights organizations, call on Pakistani authorities to guarantee uninterrupted access to the internet and digital communication platforms for everyone across the country.
In light of the statement by caretaker…
— Amnesty International South Asia, Regional Office (@amnestysasia) February 6, 2024
“In light of the statement by Caretaker Interior Minister Gohar Ejaz, we urge [Interim PM] Anwaarul Haq Kakar and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to ensure people across the country have full access to the internet and social media platforms to exercise their right to freedom of expression and freely share and access information,” it said in a post on X.
Amnesty International South Asia, Regional Office, also shared the letter in its post. The letter, sent by the undersigned organizations and members of the Keep it On coalition, a global network of over 300 organizations from 105 countries working to end internet shutdowns, emphasized the need for measures that advance human rights.
“As the people of Pakistan prepare to vote, authorities in Pakistan must adopt and prioritize measures that advance human rights by enabling unrestricted access to information and avenues for freedom of expression, assembly, and association — both offline and online. This will also contribute to an inclusive, free, and fair election process.”
They emphasized that the internet and social media platforms play a critical role in enhancing participatory governance, advancing inclusiveness and transparency, and enabling the enjoyment of fundamental human rights in a democratic society.
“These platforms enable public discourse about election processes and political candidates and allow voters to hold governments accountable for their actions. Access to the internet and digital platforms also facilitates effective election reporting, monitoring, and coverage by journalists, human rights defenders, and election observers.”
In recent weeks, internet services have remained down on different occasions, but the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has failed to justify it. It should be noted that due to internet shutdowns, a large number of people, especially those whose jobs or businesses depend directly on the internet, suffer.
