On Monday, the caretaker government announced the identification of 500 social media accounts involved in a malicious campaign against the judiciary. Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi, during a press conference in Islamabad, revealed that these accounts operate both within and outside Pakistan. An investigation is underway, with hundreds of accounts under close monitoring.
Formation of a Joint Investigation Team
The interior ministry recently formed a five-member joint investigation team (JIT) to investigate the social media campaign targeting Supreme Court judges. This team, created under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) 2016, includes representatives from various intelligence and law enforcement agencies. The JIT’s formation followed a smear campaign against Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa and the Supreme Court, triggered by a controversial decision regarding the PTI’s electoral symbol.
In the press conference featuring PTA Director General Ahmed Shamim Pirzada and FIA Cybercrime Director Operations Waqaruddin Syed, Solangi emphasized the constitutional right to free speech within legal boundaries. He warned of increased fake information as elections approach and urged the public to verify content before sharing. PTA’s Pirzada highlighted the authority’s right to block and remove content against Pakistan’s interests and integrity. FIA’s Waqaruddin assured swift action against anti-state elements, emphasizing the importance of public trust in state institutions.
Solangi concluded the conference by affirming the caretaker government’s adherence to the Constitution, looking forward to the election on February 8. He expressed confidence in the transition to a new legal and constitutional government elected by the people of Pakistan.
