08 Feb 2024 | 11:58 PM UTC
Pakistan: Authorities partially restore mobile telecommunications services in parts of country as of early Feb. 9 /update 3
Officials partially restore mobile services in Pakistan as of early Feb. 9 following Feb. 8 general elections. Tensions likely to persist.
Pakistani authorities have partially restored mobile telecommunications services in parts of the country as of early Feb. 9 after suspending mobile phone and internet services nationwide amid the Feb. 8 general elections. The Ministry of Interior has claimed that mobile services will soon be restored throughout the country. The ministry said Feb. 8 that officials suspended the services due to election-related security concerns. The move followed an increase in violence in parts of the country in the lead-up to the elections, including in Balochistan Province, where bomb attacks targeting two political offices killed at least 30 people Feb. 7, and in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, where a series of attacks has primarily targeted security forces in recent weeks, notably in Dera Ismail Khan. Internet restrictions had also been reported in several parts of Balochistan since Feb. 5. Officials could order additional restrictions, including further telecommunications cuts or temporary public movement restrictions, depending on the severity of any perceived threats.
Authorities deployed around 650,000 security personnel across 90,000 polling stations on Feb. 8, and officials will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture in some parts of the country over the coming days. Acts of intimidation and attacks on political party offices, candidates, and supporters remain possible over the short term. Following the announcement of election results, the winning political party will likely host celebratory gatherings, while supporters of losing candidates may stage protests due to perceived electoral irregularities. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) will likely provide unofficial election results Feb. 9; official results are mandated to be released by Feb. 22.
Security measures are likely to be stringent at election-related events, particularly those attended by prominent politicians such as Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif. Additionally, supporters of the opposition Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) party may organize rallies in support of their leader, former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has faced multiple corruption convictions. Common gathering spots include public grounds, squares, and major intersections in urban centers. Localized disruptions to businesses and traffic are likely near rally locations. Clashes between rival political groups and between party supporters and law enforcement remain possible, especially during political assemblies and at polling stations. Law enforcement personnel typically use forceful means, such as water cannons, batons, and tear gas, to control disruptive protests.
Further attacks by militant groups, such as Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K), Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), are possible in the aftermath of the vote, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces bordering Afghanistan. Assassination attempts targeting candidates are also possible.
Exercise increased caution if operating in Pakistan through mid-February. Avoid political party offices, political rallies, polling stations, and government buildings, where political unrest is most likely to occur. Prepare for heightened security, including roadblocks and identification checks. Plan accordingly for localized business disruptions. If a large mob begins forming, immediately leave the area or seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Monitor trusted media for updates on protests. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Carry valid identification and heed instructions from security personnel.
