“There is nothing more important than national security,” says IT Minister As MNAs Question Internet Speeds
Amid ongoing internet speed issues in the country, Federal Minister for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, on December 18, emphasized the importance of protecting national security. “There is nothing more important than national security,” said Khawaja during a session of the National Assembly in response to a query from an MNA about the internet speed.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) MNA Abdul Qadir Patel had inquired about slow internet speeds hindering the loading of images online. “Online businesses have come to a standstill. Children’s education is also suffering. We should be informed when will the internet work at its full speed,” expressed Patel.
Minister Khawaja reassured the Assembly that measures were being taken to resolve the internet issues. She noted that the internet had not been completely shut down during the holy month of Muharram, marking a shift from practices under previous governments.
“Pakistan’s average speed has also increased 28% compared to the previous year, which led to a 24% surge in mobile internet usage,” Khawaja remarked.
Despite the improvements, Khawaja recognized that some issues result from security concerns. “We have to protect the country from cyber-attacks and data leaks,” she said, adding: “In my opinion, no other country has as much freedom of expression as there is in [Pakistan].”
Addressing internet shutdown concerns, the minister clarified, “We do not enjoy restricting internet access, nor do I have any button to shut it off. In cases of security threats, decisions are made directly by the PTA. However, even during internet disruptions, fixed-line services remain operational.”
Khawaja also apologized for the inconvenience caused in certain areas and confirmed that efforts were underway to address these issues.
Photo source: PPI
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