In a bold move against an alleged government crackdown on party workers and election-related public gatherings, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) organized a groundbreaking “virtual power show.” The PTI’s initiative was met with resistance as authorities temporarily slowed down internet services and blocked major social media platforms across the nation.
The PTI, led by imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, dubbed the event a “historic Virtual Jalsa” in response to what they called an “illegitimate, fascist regime’s fear of the unprecedented popularity of Imran Khan’s PTI.” The party accused the government of intentionally disrupting internet connectivity to impede their online rally.
NetBlocks, an independent global internet monitor, corroborated the PTI’s claims by reporting a nation-scale disruption to social media platforms, including X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The incident unfolded just ahead of the PTI’s major virtual gathering, heightening suspicions of government interference.
The PTI’s virtual power play serves as a precursor to the upcoming national elections scheduled for February 8. Election officials are already gearing up for the political showdown, and the PTI’s defiance in the face of internet disruptions adds a new layer of intrigue to the unfolding political drama.
As the virtual rally unfolds against the backdrop of internet slowdowns and social media restrictions, the PTI remains steadfast in its commitment to rallying support. The government has yet to issue an official response to the allegations, leaving the nation on edge as it anticipates the next twist in this high-stakes political narrative. Stay tuned for updates as Pakistan’s political landscape continues to evolve in the run-up to the crucial national elections.