Nationwide Protests
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Secretary Information, Sheikh Waqas Akram, announced on Thursday the party’s decision to stage nationwide protests against the recently proposed amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
Addressing a press conference, Akram strongly criticized the amendments, labeling them a threat to freedom of expression and an attack on democratic values.
“We also denounce the Digital Nation Act. These laws are designed to control social media and target PTI,” Akram said. He called the PECA amendments a “draconian law” and vowed that PTI would resist any attempts to suppress the voices of citizens through legislation.
Akram also addressed the ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI, stating that the fourth round of talks would only proceed if the government formed a judicial commission by noon on Thursday. “The government needs to demonstrate seriousness and follow through on its commitments,” he added.
The controversial Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024 was recently approved by the National Assembly’s IT and Telecom Standing Committee with a majority vote, sparking further contention.
The bill secured ten votes in favor while six members opposed it, highlighting the lack of consensus within the committee. Chairman of the committee, Amin Ul Haq, expressed a desire for unanimous approval, which could not be achieved due to sharp disagreements.
Minister of State for IT, Shiza Fatima Khawaja, briefed the committee, explaining that amendments had been made to the bill and that the updated draft had been shared with all members. She clarified misconceptions raised by opposition members, including Omar Ayub, Umair Niazi, and Barrister Gohar, who voiced concerns about the bill potentially centralizing citizens’ data.
Khawaja emphasized that the digital identity system proposed under the bill was aimed at facilitating easier access to public services and ensuring robust digital security rather than consolidating data in one place.
PTI lawmakers have criticized the bill, asserting that it could be used to stifle dissent and monitor online activities. The opposition’s resistance to both the PECA amendments and the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill reflects growing concerns about the government’s intentions to regulate digital spaces, which many view as an infringement on fundamental rights.
PTI’s leadership has reiterated its commitment to resisting these measures and defending freedom of speech, stating that the nationwide protests will continue until the government reverses these decisions.
