If freedom of expression suppressed, TikTok, Facebook would have banned: IT Minister

ISLAMABAD: Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja said that the government could have banned Facebook and TikTok if the case was to suppress the freedom of expression.

She remarked during the National Assembly on Wednesday as lawmakers raised concerns over the persistent internet disruptions and closure of social media site X, formerly Twitter.

“No other country has the freedom of expression more than Pakistan,” she maintained.

While responding to the questions, the IT Minister emphasised that nothing is more paramount than national security, adding that digital attacks must be avoided for national security.

Shaza Fatima highlighted the challenges posed by cyber threats, stating, “The enemy is always ready for cyber attacks through social media. We must strengthen our defences against cyberattacks, data leaks, and digital attacks from adversarial nations.”

Responding to the PPP MNA Abdul Qadir Patel’s question regarding the internet disruption, the minister argued “We have no desire for the internet to be shut down. I do not have a button to shut down the internet.”

“Pakistan’s average speed has also increased 28% compared to the previous year, which led to a 24% surge in mobile internet usage,” the IT minister noted.

She acknowledged that some issues arise due to security concerns, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring the protection of citizens’ privacy and the safety of users’ information.

Fatima announced that the 4G and 5G spectrum auction would take place in April. She mentioned that the Ministry of IT is finalising a policy to ensure smartphones are accessible to everyone.

The federal minister also explained that Pakistan’s internet currently operates on a 274 MHz spectrum, which is insufficient for the country’s population.

The minister explained that the Ministry of Interior had directed PTA to block certain services due to security threats, ensuring that such actions are taken with minimal disruption to users.