ISLAMABAD: Amnesty International has written an open letter, urging authorities to guarantee “uninterrupted access” to Internet and digital communication platforms for everyone across Pakistan throughout the polling process.
“We, the undersigned organisations and members of the #KeepItOn coalition — a global network of over 300 organisations from 105 countries working to end internet shutdowns — appeal to you, Prime Minister Mr Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, to publicly commit to ensuring that the people of Pakistan have unfettered access to the internet, social media platforms, and all other communication channels throughout the upcoming general election on February 8, 2024,” it said.
It noted that as the people of Pakistan prepare to vote, authorities must adopt and prioritise measures that advance human rights, by enabling unrestricted access to information and avenues for freedom of expression, assembly, and association — both offline and online.
“This will also contribute to an inclusive, free, and fair election process,” the organisation said.
Achakzai says no guidelines issued for suspending internet services in Balochistan
Caretaker Balochistan Minister for Information Jan Achakzai has said that no guidelines regarding suspension of internet services in Balochistan have been issued by the provincial government, PPI reports.
In a video message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Achakzai said police and levies personnel would be deployed in all the polling stations across Balochistan while the services of Frontier Corps Balochistan and other law enforcement agencies would also be sought when required by the district administrations.
He said that peaceful environment would be ensured on the election day in the province. Achakzai said that with the exception of some incidents, overall security situation has remained satisfactory across the province.
