X, formerly known as Twitter, has been restored in Pakistan after nearly nine months of being inaccessible. The platform had been disrupted across several regions since February 17.
The restoration comes amidst nationwide protests led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters, who have gathered at Islamabad’s D-Chowk demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Protesters, including a main convoy led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi, were seen heading toward the federal capital. Live footage captured hundreds marching to the protest site.
Many users have reported successfully accessing X on smartphones, although issues with its browser version persist for some. The suspension of services was first imposed a week after the February 8 general elections, where independent candidates backed by PTI secured a majority of seats. However, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) formed the government in coalition with other parties.
On April 18, 2024, X’s Global Government Affairs team issued a statement indicating ongoing discussions with Pakistani authorities. “We continue to work with the Pakistani Government to understand their concerns,” the team shared.
During the caretaker government’s tenure, officials maintained that the platform’s suspension was part of their policies.
The news of X’s restoration was widely shared on the platform itself, with reports confirming users could access it without a VPN. Some, however, noted restricted access to Instagram. Journalist Azaz Syed remarked, “Following the protests, X has gained freedom. Now we can use it without VPN.”
The restoration of X has sparked renewed conversations about internet freedom and the regulation of social media platforms in the country, particularly during politically charged events like the ongoing PTI demonstrations.
This development marks a significant moment for digital communication in Pakistan as millions regain access to the widely used platform.
