Pakistan’s mobile phone services were temporarily suspended nationwide on Thursday, February 8th, 2024, during the country’s general election. The interior ministry cited “maintaining law and order” as the reason for the measure, highlighting the need for heightened security measures following recent attacks.
Nationwide Suspension on Election Day
The interior ministry announced the suspension in a statement, effective from the start of voting on Thursday morning (8:00 AM PST). The move aimed to curb potential threats and violence during the election process. While the exact duration of the suspension wasn’t specified, reports indicate services were restored later in the evening after polling stations closed.
Security Concerns and Recent Attacks
The decision comes in the wake of heightened security concerns after twin bomb blasts claimed by ISIS struck candidates’ offices in southwestern Pakistan on Wednesday, leaving at least 28 people dead. These attacks fueled anxieties about potential election-related violence, prompting authorities to take extra precautions.
Varying Reports of Service Access
AFP journalists reported experiencing mobile internet disruption in the capital Islamabad as polls opened. Similar reports emerged from the southern metropolis of Karachi, indicating uneven service access across the country. The extent and duration of these disruptions varied geographically, with some areas experiencing near-complete outages while others saw limited access.
Criticisms and Concerns
The suspension of mobile services drew criticism from some quarters, raising concerns about its impact on communication and information flow during the election. Critics argued that it could hinder transparency and limit voters’ ability to access vital information on polling day. Additionally, concerns were raised about the disruption caused to businesses and essential services reliant on mobile communication.
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