Priya PatelTLDR:
Pakistan restricts internet access on election day, blocking mobile networks and internet data. The government claims it is a necessary security measure due to recent terrorist attacks, but experts argue it is a disproportionate action that undermines democracy. VPNs are ineffective in bypassing the internet shutdown, leaving voters unable to access necessary information and communicate with each other.
Pakistan’s internet blackout on election day is seen as a significant setback for democracy in the country. Internet watchdog NetBlocks reported disruptions to mobile and fixed internet connections across multiple regions. The shutdown made it difficult for voters to access information about candidates and party symbols, hindering their ability to cast their vote correctly. The lack of communication between citizens also affected their planning and transportation to the polls.
Experts argue that this is not the first time Pakistan has used internet blackouts as a means of stifling political opposition. Previous disruptions targeted former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party, PTI. VPN usage has increased in response to these internet outages, with VPN provider Proton VPN reporting a 400% increase in sign-ups in early 2023. The government’s decision to cut internet access on election day has been criticized as an attack on freedom of information and communication.
Digital rights advocates and internet experts are calling for the immediate reconnection of Pakistan’s internet, highlighting the negative impact on democracy and the ability to track and report voting irregularities. The Access Now campaign manager states that shutting down mobile communications on voting day is unacceptable and discredits the integrity of the election.
