Breaking News: Pakistan Plunged into Chaos as Internet Outages and Social Media Disruptions Mar Protest March
As Pakistan teeters on the brink of another chapter of political turmoil, widespread disruptions to social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, have been reported, alongside significant internet outages. These disruptions coincided with the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) resuming its march toward Islamabad to protest what the party calls a "stolen mandate" and unjust arrests, sparked by the jailing of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Internet Outages and Social Media Disruptions
Reports from Downdetector.com, a platform that tracks online outages, confirmed that users in Pakistan faced difficulties accessing WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms, with internet connectivity also being sporadic in several regions. The Pakistani government had earlier indicated plans to curtail internet services in areas of heightened security concerns, but the broader disruptions to social media platforms were not explicitly addressed, fuelling speculation about whether these measures were deliberate or coincidental.
The outages have significantly impacted communication, with protesters facing challenges in coordinating their activities. For ordinary citizens, the inability to access critical communication tools has added another layer of frustration in an already tense environment. As the situation unfolds, concerns are growing about the impact on the country’s already fragile democracy and the ability of citizens to exercise their right to free expression.
The Protest March: A Final Call by Imran Khan
Imran Khan, the 72-year-old former prime minister, issued a "final call" for nationwide protests on November 24. The PTI-led demonstrations aim to protest the alleged stolen mandate in recent elections, condemn the arrests of PTI leaders and supporters, and oppose the passage of the controversial 26th amendment, which PTI claims strengthens authoritarian governance. In his absence, the march is being led by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi.
Challenges Faced by Protesters
The march, which began on Sunday from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, faced significant obstacles, including:
- Blocked highways: Authorities placed shipping containers to obstruct protesters’ routes, forcing them to find alternative paths.
- Delays: Protesters used heavy machinery to clear the barriers, slowing their progress and causing frustration among the crowd.
- Section 144 restrictions: The government imposed Section 144, a colonial-era law prohibiting political gatherings, citing security concerns, but protesters remained determined to reach Islamabad.
Despite these hurdles, the protesters camped overnight at Haro in Attock district, Punjab, before resuming their journey toward Islamabad on Monday, fueled by their determination to bring attention to their cause.
Government’s Response
The Pakistani government justified the restrictions and internet curbs as necessary to maintain order, particularly in light of a high-level delegation from Belarus visiting Islamabad. The delegation, led by Foreign Minister Maksim Ryzinkov, arrived ahead of an official visit by President Alexander Lukashenko, with important bilateral agreements expected during discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar criticized PTI’s timing for the protests, accusing the party of engaging in a "well-thought-out conspiracy" to disrupt the country during international engagements. Dar highlighted previous instances where PTI protests coincided with global events, such as the SCO summit or visits from foreign dignitaries.
The government has maintained that the protests disrupt national stability and tarnish Pakistan’s image on the global stage. However, PTI leaders, including Gandapur, remain steadfast, urging supporters not to relent until Imran Khan is released from prison.
Bushra Bibi’s Unprecedented Role
Contrary to earlier announcements, Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife, joined the protesters, energizing the crowd with brief remarks. From her vehicle, she expressed frustration over delays caused by logistical hurdles, urging supporters to stay in their vehicles to expedite the march. Her presence marks a significant moment in the PTI’s protest movement, showcasing the party’s determination to persevere despite setbacks.
The Bigger Picture: A Nation Divided
The ongoing protest and internet disruptions highlight the growing divide in Pakistan’s political landscape. On one side, PTI supporters demand transparency, justice, and Khan’s release, while the government asserts its measures are aimed at maintaining stability and fostering international relations. The lack of clear communication about internet disruptions and the heavy-handed imposition of Section 144 underscore the challenges of balancing national security with democratic freedoms.
As the march progresses toward Islamabad, the nation’s focus remains firmly on how both the government and PTI will navigate this volatile situation, with fears of escalating tensions and uncertainty about the future of Pakistan’s democracy.