By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Despite the passage of 10 months since the suspension of Twitter, now known as X, internet disruptions in Pakistan persist, leaving users frustrated and questioning the government’s stance on the platform’s restoration.

While citizens remain unable to access the platform through conventional means, government officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, continue to use X via Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), highlighting a stark contradiction in policy and practice.

The suspension of Twitter was initially implemented as part of broader efforts to curb misinformation and manage political dissent. However, the prolonged inaccessibility of the platform has drawn criticism from rights groups, tech advocates, and citizens who view it as a suppression of freedom of expression.

“The government’s refusal to restore Twitter has created a significant communication gap,” said a digital rights expert. “It’s ironic that while ordinary users struggle to stay connected, officials freely access the platform, undermining their own restrictions.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with other key figures, has been observed posting updates on X through VPNs, raising questions about the rationale behind the ongoing suspension. Critics argue that this double standard erodes public trust and calls into question the transparency of government decisions.

While the government has not provided a clear timeline or justification for the continued ban, users and businesses reliant on the platform for outreach and engagement have been severely impacted. The disruption has also affected Pakistan’s image on the global stage, with international observers noting the inconsistency in the country’s digital policies.

As frustration mounts, calls for the restoration of X are growing louder. Whether the government will address these concerns remains uncertain, leaving millions of users in limbo and amplifying debates about digital rights and access in Pakistan.