Elon Musk
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has made a direct appeal to Elon Musk, owner of X and founder of Starlink, to deploy satellite internet services in Pakistan as the nation experiences widespread internet disruptions ahead of the party’s pivotal protest in Islamabad on Sunday, November 24.
In a statement posted on its official website, PTI addressed Musk directly, writing, “Hey Elon @elonmusk!” The message highlights the party’s urgent call for Starlink services, claiming that the protest represents millions of Pakistanis marching for democracy, constitutional rights, and human rights.
The post emphasized the critical role of connectivity, stating, “The world needs to see and hear their remarkable story! The illegitimate, authoritarian regime has not only shut down @X since February 2024, abducted and tortured social media activists as well as their family members but is now planning on shutting down the internet altogether. Pakistan needs Starlink.”
Accompanied by hashtags such as ‘#PakistanUnderFascism’ and ‘#UndeclaredMartialLaw,’ PTI’s plea comes as communication services face significant disruptions across the country.
Internet shutdowns are reportedly part of the government’s security measures aimed at minimizing public mobilization during the protest.
Cities like Islamabad and Rawalpindi have seen complete suspensions of mobile internet services, while Peshawar has reported partial disruptions.
Residents of Karachi, southern Punjab cities including Bahawalpur and Toba Tek Singh, and areas like Gujranwala and Dera Ismail Khan are also grappling with halted internet and cellular services.
The Ministry of Interior defended these measures, stating that service suspensions are limited to high-risk areas to ensure public safety. Connectivity remains unaffected in other parts of the country, according to officials.
Despite these restrictions, PTI remains determined to proceed with its demonstration in Islamabad. The protest seeks to highlight demands for the release of the party’s founder, Imran Khan, and address allegations of election rigging, suppression of dissent, and the controversial passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
Security has been significantly heightened, with hundreds of police, Rangers, and Frontier Constabulary (FC) personnel deployed to Islamabad.
Entry and exit points have been sealed, and Section 144 has been imposed to restrict public gatherings.
The protest also coincides with a scheduled visit by the Belarusian president, adding further tension to the already volatile atmosphere in the federal capital.
As the situation unfolds, PTI continues to push for global attention and support, urging Elon Musk to help ensure uninterrupted communication for its cause.
I am a dynamic professional, specializing in Peace and Conflict Studies, Conflict Management and Resolution, and International Relations. My expertise is particularly focused on South Asian Conflicts and the intricacies of the Indian Ocean and Asia Pacific Politics. With my skills as a Content Writer, I serve as a bridge between academia and the public, translating complex global issues into accessible narratives. My passion for fostering understanding and cooperation on the national and international stage drives me to make meaningful contributions to peace and global discourse.
