Social media has assumed an increasingly important role in Pakistan’s political landscape, with political parties and their supporters relying heavily on digital platforms to mobilise public opinion. The ongoing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march, however, has once again raised questions about the gap between online political activism and participation on the ground.
Critics of PTI’s digital campaign argue that several prominent YouTubers and social media commentators who had been urging supporters to join the protest have remained away from the streets as the march entered a critical phase.
The criticism has particularly focused on commentators who broadcast from studios or overseas locations while calling on supporters to participate in the protest.
Imran Riaz Khan
Imran Riaz Khan, who has frequently used his digital platforms to discuss PTI’s political campaign and encourage supporters to remain politically active, has also faced criticism over his absence from the protest site.
Critics argue that political commentators who call on supporters to take risks should also be prepared to demonstrate their commitment through their own participation. Supporters of the commentators, however, may argue that their role is primarily to provide political commentary and information rather than participate physically in protests.
Overseas commentators face criticism
Several PTI-aligned commentators living abroad have also come under criticism for their online activism during the march.
Major (retd) Adil Raja, who is based in the United Kingdom, has continued to publish political content and commentary on Pakistan’s political situation. Critics have questioned why commentators living abroad should encourage people in Pakistan to participate in potentially risky protests.
Similarly, Syed Haider Raza Mehdi, who is based in Canada, has continued to discuss PTI politics and developments in Pakistan through social media.
Dr Moeed Pirzada, who operates from abroad, has also remained active through digital platforms and political commentary.
Saber Shakir has likewise continued to post videos and commentary concerning the PTI campaign and the ongoing political developments.
Wajahat Saeed Khan and Shahin Sehbai have also remained active on social media while living outside Pakistan.
Salman Ahmad’s social media activity
Musician and PTI supporter Salman Ahmad has also used social media to express support for the party and comment on political developments. Critics have questioned the use of older or disputed images and posts during periods of heightened political tension.
Debate over digital activism
The controversy has highlighted a broader debate over the role of social media in political mobilisation.
Supporters of digital activism argue that journalists, commentators and influencers can contribute to political movements without physically joining demonstrations. Critics, however, say there is a clear difference between encouraging ordinary citizens to take risks on the streets and participating in those activities oneself.
The debate has also raised questions about the financial incentives associated with political content on platforms such as YouTube. Highly emotional political content can attract significant viewership and engagement, potentially generating revenue for content creators.
At the same time, ordinary protesters may face the direct consequences of participating in demonstrations, including arrests, injuries, disruption to education or employment and possible legal proceedings.
The ongoing PTI march has therefore brought renewed attention to the influence of digital political campaigns and the responsibilities of those who use large online audiences to mobilise public opinion.
