During a National Assembly session, PPP leaders strongly criticized the federal government over the ongoing internet slowdown and the ban on social media platform X.
Minister of State for IT, Shiza Fatima, explained that X was blocked following instructions from the Ministry of Interior, citing national security concerns. She added that fewer than two percent of people use X, and if the government aimed to limit free speech, platforms like TikTok and Facebook would have been banned as well.
PPP leader Qadir Patel expressed his frustration, questioning when the internet would return to full speed, regardless of the platform. He slammed the government’s handling of the issue, claiming it had ruined the country’s internet service.
He remarked, “What firewall are they setting up that isn’t working? I have never seen such incompetence in any ministry.”
Patel also highlighted the negative impact of slow internet speeds on children’s education and businesses.
PPP’s Shazia Marri joined in the criticism, calling the situation “absurd.” She pointed out the government’s push for the Digital Pakistan bill while the internet remains shut down. She questioned, “Why are those who don’t misuse social media being punished?”
