Internet Disruptions Target Virtual Rally by Jailed Ex-PM Imran Khan's Party

Systematic disruptions occur for the second time in two weeks as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf turns to online campaigning amid crackdown.

Internet services in Pakistan were severely disrupted during a virtual rally held by the party of jailed ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan, marking the second such incident in two weeks.
Imran Khan and many prominent candidates from his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, have been barred from standing for election, with in-person campaigning thwarted by a crackdown.
The internet disruptions have been described as 'remarkably systematic' and are seen as targeting the opposition party, which has turned to online campaigning due to restrictions.
Despite the crackdown, a Gallup Pakistan survey taken in December confirmed Imran Khan is the nation's most popular politician.
Elections in Pakistan are scheduled for February 8, amid allegations of pre-poll rigging and a military-backed government crackdown targeting the PTI.