Mobile services suspended on election day in Pakistan

Several mobile network users in Pakistan encountered signal problems on election day, including those in the federal capital.

Mobile services suspended on election day in Pakistan. Numerous individuals experienced difficulties accessing mobile data, making calls, and sending SMS to other users.

Similar challenges were reported in certain areas of Rawalpindi, where residents highlighted issues with low signals and exceptionally slow internet speeds on election day.

It is noteworthy that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) had previously assured that mobile internet services would not be disrupted on election day, dispelling rumours of any pre-planned disruptions.

Around 6:30 am, some users took to social media to express concerns about low signals and poor internet connectivity. Users from different networks reported instances of subpar signal quality.

CEC shares security concerns amid internet suspension

ISLAMABAD: Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja has said that the internet services have been suspended as a security precaution during the general elections. He said, “If the internet services are restored and there is a terror incident, who will be responsible?”

Raja’s remarks come in the wake of heightened security concerns, particularly following recent terrorist activities in Balochistan. Emphasizing the criticality of maintaining a secure environment for the electoral process, he stressed the importance of proactive measures to mitigate potential threats.

Speaking on the decision to suspend mobile services nationwide during the voting period, Raja reiterated the necessity of such measures for ensuring the safety and integrity of the election process. However, he underscored the need for comprehensive security assessments and collaboration between relevant agencies to address security challenges effectively.

While acknowledging the role of the Ministry of Interior and other security agencies in assessing and managing security risks, Raja said that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) will not be issuing any directives to the ministry regarding the internet services.

Instead, he maintained that decisions pertaining to internet access would be handled separately, with a focus on balancing security imperatives with citizens’ rights.

The temporary suspension of mobile phone services during the upcoming general elections reflects a proactive approach by electoral authorities to safeguard the electoral process against potential disruptions. However, concerns regarding the impact of such measures on communication and accessibility remain prevalent among the public.

No internet means rigging has begun: Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar

On the crucial day of the 2024 elections, internet services across the nation were abruptly suspended, sparking allegations of rigging by prominent political figure Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar.

Khokhar, known for his vocal stance, raised concerns as reports emerged of mobile phone networks also being shut down. He asserted that such measures were a blatant attempt to manipulate the electoral process, depriving candidates of vital communication channels with their agents and election machinery.

“Cutting off candidates from their agents and the election apparatus is a flagrant abuse of democratic principles,” Khokhar said.

Expressing outright rejection of the unfolding situation, Khokhar condemned what he described as “bullying tactics” aimed at influencing the election outcome.

The suspension of internet and mobile services on election day has ignited widespread debate, with citizens and political observers questioning the motives behind such drastic measures. As the nation awaits the outcome of the 2024 elections, concerns over the integrity of the electoral process continue to loom large.