As Pakistan undertakes a pivotal election, the decision to suspend mobile calls and data services has sparked controversy. The interior ministry justified this measure citing recent terror incidents, raising concerns about its impact on the democratic process. Critics argue that facilitating voters should take precedence over imposing such hurdles.
The elections marks a crucial moment, coming nearly two years after the no-confidence vote that ousted former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Nawaz Sharif, a three-time former prime minister, is a prominent candidate, making this election widely viewed as the least credible in Pakistan’s recent history. Imran Khan, barred from standing due to corruption charges, adds a layer of complexity to the political landscape.
The suspension of both calls and data services, while wifi networks remain operational, has drawn criticism for impeding citizens. Voters in Lahore reported difficulties in booking taxis and coordinating with family members due to the internet blackout. The Interior Ministry defended the move, citing recent terrorist attacks as a threat that necessitated stringent security measures.
The internet shutdown has prompted concerns about its unprecedented extent, especially during a critical election. Bilawal Bhutto Zadari, son of the late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, condemned the shutdown, urging the immediate restoration of services. His Pakistan People’s Party approached the voting commission and courts seeking redress.
Security remains a top priority, evident in the heavy presence of armed guards and army officers at polling stations across the country. Border crossings with Afghanistan and Iran have been closed to ensure full security during the polling process.
Nawaz Sharif, casting his vote with tight security, expressed confidence in the election’s fairness. He highlighted the sacrifices his family made and emphasized that a victory for his party would lead to improved lives and reduced inflation, aligning with the people’s wishes.
With Imran Khan sidelined, analysts predict the military-favored Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to emerge victorious, potentially returning Nawaz Sharif to power. However, concerns arise regarding the suspension of mobile services, seen by some as creating an environment conducive to election rigging. Independent candidate Mustafa Nawaz Khokar criticized the move, stating it hampers candidates from overseeing their agents and staff on election day.
Despite the challenges, more than 5,000 candidates are vying for the 266 general seats in the 342-member National Assembly, reflecting the diverse political landscape. Gallup’s survey on the eve of the elections revealed widespread skepticism, with over two-thirds of Pakistanis lacking confidence in the honesty of their elections.
The crackdown on Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has generated public anger and discontent, potentially impacting the overall perception of the election’s fairness. Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center, warned that the suspension of mobile services could deny many Pakistanis the right to vote freely, casting doubt on the government’s assurance of a fair election.
As the voting concludes, strict rules around election coverage remain in place until midnight. The announcement of results, expected within two weeks, will determine the next chapter in Pakistan’s political landscape. The challenges and controversies surrounding this election underscore the importance of safeguarding democratic processes and ensuring the people’s voices are heard without undue disruptions.