Pakistan’s telecom body says government will not suspend Internet service during elections

The logo of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is pictured on the building facade at its headquarters in Islamabad on June 24, 2023. (AFP)

• The caretaker interior minister hinted at the possibility this week, citing security concerns
• International rights groups urged Pakistan to ensure continuous Internet access nationwide

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s telecommunications regulatory body announced on Wednesday Internet services will not be suspended during the general elections tomorrow, countering speculations raised by the caretaker interior minister, Gohar Ejaz, who said a day earlier they could be temporarily halted due to security concerns.
Addressing a news conference in the federal capital on Tuesday, Ejaz said the government could block Internet access on requests from district or provincial administrations to mitigate potential security threats.
Contrary to his statement, the country’s telecom body issued a concize statement refuting any plans to disrupt Internet connectivity.
“In a clarification statement today, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed that Internet will be available on the Election Day without any interruption,” the state-own Radio Pakistan reported while quoting the PTA statement.
Pakistan has experienced temporary Internet and cellphone service shutdowns during significant events in the past, often justified on the basis of security needs.
Ejaz’s remarks on Tuesday prompted Amnesty International and other rights groups to urge Pakistani officials to ensure continuous Internet and digital communication access nationwide.