ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The ongoing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march has brought renewed scrutiny to the role of social media influencers and overseas commentators who have been campaigning for greater participation in the protest.
Critics have questioned the absence of several prominent social media personalities from the streets despite their repeated calls for PTI supporters to participate in the protest and push towards Gandi Chowk.
The debate has particularly focused on influencers and commentators operating from outside Pakistan, with critics alleging that some continued to encourage protesters through videos, livestreams and social media posts while remaining abroad.
Names including Imran Riaz Khan, Major (retd) Adil Raja, Syed Haider Raza Mehdi, Dr Moeed Pirzada, Sabir Shakir, Wajahat Saeed Khan and Shaheen Sehbai have been cited in the criticism over their reported role in the online campaign.
US-based musician Salman Ahmed has also faced criticism over his social media activity and alleged sharing of old or misleading images related to the protests.
Critics argue that the contrast between online calls for street mobilisation and the absence of some campaigners from the protest sites has raised questions about the nature of social media-driven political activism.
The controversy has intensified amid reports of clashes between protesters and law-enforcement personnel during the PTI march. Police personnel were reportedly injured after protesters allegedly resorted to stone-pelting and gunfire in Upper Waziristan.
The situation has also raised concerns over the consequences faced by ordinary protesters, including arrests, injuries and possible legal action, while social media personalities continue to attract large audiences through their coverage of the political developments.
The PTI has maintained its political demands and continues its protest campaign, while the role and responsibility of social media influencers in mobilising supporters remains a subject of growing public debate.
