In the fifth week of social media platform X’s disruption, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need for refined internet speech laws on Tuesday.
“Enhanced legislation is necessary,” he stated, addressing queries about the platform’s shutdown. Naqvi highlighted the issue of false accusations online, advocating for legal reassessment to curb misuse.
He pointed to the U.S. example, noting their stance on content regulation, particularly mentioning TikTok’s ban. Naqvi underscored the importance of revising laws to manage social media responsibly, citing smear campaigns against the judiciary and military.
However, Naqvi dodged questions about government officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, circumventing the ban using VPNs.
He also dismissed a journalist’s inquiry regarding his past summons by NAB in a money laundering case, advising against “incorrect questions.”
Since February 17, X access has been sporadic across Pakistan, stemming from allegations of election rigging by former commissioner Liaquat Chattha.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar recently clarified the platform’s ban status, contradicting previous statements and noting the absence of an official ban notice.
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Hafeezur Rehman plans to discuss X’s closure with the interior ministry, seeking clarity or accountability for the decision. Despite initial confusion, Rehman referenced a February 8 security-related internet shutdown directive.
Amnesty International and the PTI have called for X’s immediate reinstatement, criticizing the government for harming Pakistan’s international image and suppressing facts about election integrity.
Naqvi also addressed terrorism and illegal immigration, promising decisive action against both. He mentioned forthcoming improvements in the FIA and expressed confidence in winning the Senate election as an independent candidate from Punjab on April 2.
