Will internet services shutdown during elections? minister clarifies

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Interior Minister Gohar Ijaz on Tuesday clarified that there have been no plans to shut down mobile or internet services on February 8, the day of the general election.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Gohar Ijaz stated that in light of the security situation, any requests from districts or provinces to suspend internet services will be carefully reviewed and considered.

He mentioned that over 137,000 security personnel will be deployed across the country for election security, with at least 7 to 8 officials responsible for enforcing law at each polling station.

Read more: Govt issued no instructions for internet shutdown on election day: Solangi

Gohar Ijaz said that they do not want to see law enforcement in Sindh taking matters into their own hands, reassuring that armed forces, paramilitary forces, and police are present in Sindh.

The Interior Minister stated that voting is a right, and people should cast their votes freely without fear, warning against any forces trying to destabilize the country.