Pakistan has blocked access to major social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter, while internet services have been suspended in various cities following the arrest of former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chief Imran Khan by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on corruption charges.
The move was aimed at preventing the spread of propaganda, according to government sources. Khan’s arrest in the Al-Qadir Trust case has sparked protests across the country, with the additional chief secretary of Punjab home department stating that Rangers contingents have been called in and mobile phone services suspended in Lahore.
Khan was arrested by Rangers personnel acting on the NAB’s warrant from the Islamabad High Court premises, where he had gone to seek bail in several cases registered against him. The NAB had issued warrants for his arrest on May 01, 2023.
READ MORE: Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan Arrested
According to reports, Khan has been taken to the NAB office in Rawalpindi for questioning. The arrest of a former prime minister has created a stir in Pakistan, with Khan’s supporters accusing the government of targeting him for political reasons. However, Khan’s opponents have welcomed the move as a long-overdue action against corruption.
The blocking of social media and internet services has added to the tension in the country, with many expressing concern about the restriction of access to information. Human rights organizations have criticized the move, stating that it is a violation of freedom of speech and expression. The suspension of mobile phone services in Lahore has also raised concerns about the impact on emergency services and communication in the region.
The situation remains tense in Pakistan, with protests expected to continue. The arrest of Imran Khan has raised questions about the accountability of politicians in the country and highlighted the need for a strong and independent accountability mechanism to hold politicians accountable for their actions.
It is essential that Khan’s trial is conducted in a fair and transparent manner, and the evidence against him is presented in a court of law. The NAB must ensure that its actions are not influenced by political pressures, and justice is served in the interest of the country.
