Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced that services for Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and other apps are now restored.
Previously, the PTA hadn’t received any orders about shutting down internet services again. They’ve also stated that mobile internet is now available again all across the country. However, they’re still deciding whether to reopen social media sites.
Yet, some folks are still unable to access YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.
A week ago, access to social media sites was cut off due to violent protests by PTI supporters, sparked by the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan on corruption charges.
The Interior Ministry had opted to turn off internet service nationwide. This past Saturday, the PTA announced that internet service was back up nationwide, but they’re still keeping social media apps turned off until they make a decision on when to turn them back on.
Despite the return of the internet, the continued shutdown of social media apps such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram is causing quite a stir. The initial shutdown was put in place by the government because they were concerned about the spread of fake news and its potential to disrupt public order and safety.
The PTA has clarified that the final decision on when to turn social media back on will be made by the Interior Ministry, led by Rana Sanaullah.
