Pakistan's internet has slowed to a crawl for over two months, sparking accusations of government interference aimed at suppressing protests by supporters of opposition leader Imran Khan.
Despite initial explanations blaming the upgrades of the country's "web management system" or alleged faulty undersea cables, frustration is mounting, The Washington Post reported Sunday.
"The internet is working absolutely fine," claimed Information Minister Attaullah Tarar last month, dismissing concerns.
Yet, for many, the slowdown has become a daily struggle. Digital rights activist Usama Khilji believes the government is "slowing down the internet" because it's easier to monitor and control online content, such as limiting access to cached websites.
Meanwhile, freelancers, ride-hailing drivers, and others who depend on mobile apps for gig work say the impact is crippling.
One gig worker, Mohammad Arif, said when he tries to accept rides, his screen freezes.
In a nation where only 4 million people have WiFi, compared to 140 million relying on mobile internet, the consequences are widespread.
Experts warn that restricting the internet could foment protests.
"You have a party with a lot of support, including many young backers, that don't really have anywhere to peacefully channel their grievances," author Michael Kugelman said of Khan supporters. "I think there are some long-term concerns about what that could mean."
Nick Koutsobinas ✉
Nick Koutsobinas, a Newsmax writer, has years of news reporting experience. A graduate from Missouri State University’s philosophy program, he focuses on exposing corruption and censorship.
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