SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT ON POLITICAL SITUATION OF PAKISTAN

By : Qamber Raza

SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT ON POLITICAL SITUATION OF PAKISTAN

Pakistan’s internet users are increasingly connected with each other and are living in a connected world. There is a certain effect of social media in Pakistan and yes movements in recent times have used social media as an effective tool.

POLITICAL PARTIES ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Here are some important information of political parties on social mediahow popular they are and what is their activity on Facebook

POLITICAL LEADERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Here is the image of PTI chairman Imran Khan’ official twitter pagewhich says 2.27 million people are following him

You can also view his tweet about his opposition party

POLITICAL LEADERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

ISSUES WITH THE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN PAKISTANI POLITICS

As amazing a tool as it may be, there are some obvious issues with the use of social media in Pak politics:

Limited reach: So far, social platforms are only able to rally around the urban population.  With the majority of the vote banks situated in the rural areas, the influence of social media is questionable.  Illiteracy and the language barrier would seriously hamper its reach.

ISSUES WITH THE USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN PAKISTANI POLITICS

Inappropriate language and demeanor: Just like in the field, social platforms are often used to ridicule, slander and verbally abuse the very people who are running the respective sites.  Open discussion is definitely beneficial but the negative behavior only adds to the animosity among the political workers and adds nothing positive to the campaigns.

ELECTION’S CAMPAIGN ON SOCIAL MEDIA

“Communication technology in general and social media in particular would play a major role during next general elections. With well over 100 million cell users in the country and increasing availability of internet in far-flung areas of the country, it is bound to impact the elections,”- predicts Professor Rasul Baksh Rais of LUMS.

ELECTION’S CAMPAIGN ON SOCIAL MEDIA The social activity surrounding

Imran Khan’s Lahore jalsa was an indicator of the power of social media.  We are definitely sick and tired of corrupt politicians and their unscrupulous behavior.  Anything that can challenge the current system and holds promise for a change is certainly welcome.  However, despite its potential, there are many question marks about the true influence of social media in Pak politics.

Do you think the social media phenomenon is likely to have any effect on the results of the upcoming elections? Let us know what you think…