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Aftab Maken
Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima, has revealed the resistance faced in digitizing government departments, emphasizing that no institution willingly embraces digital transformation.
Speaking at a briefing for the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications, she stressed the need to adopt digital systems to combat corruption and bring transparency. She asserted, “We must decide whether to end bribery and inefficiency or remain stagnant.”
The committee, chaired by Aminul Haq of the MQM-P, reviewed and approved the government’s proposed Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024, with 10 members voting in favor and 6 opposing, including PTI members. Minister Shazia explained the bill’s potential to empower institutions and address fundamental issues like cybersecurity threats and financial fraud. However, opposition members voiced concerns about implementation and oversight.
PTI leader Omar Ayub criticized the Internet’s poor infrastructure, blaming sharks for damaging undersea cables and alleging deliberate slowdowns during PTI events. Committee member Amir Niazi warned that the digital economy was on the brink of collapse and urged careful planning. Barrister Gohar raised concerns about data security and misuse, suggesting structural revisions to the Pakistan Digital Authority, including provincial representation and higher qualifications for members.
Meanwhile, a related discussion on licensing satellite Internet services, particularly Starlink, unfolded in the Senate Committee on IT, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) updated the committee on Starlink’s application, submitted in February 2022, noting that it awaited security clearance from the Ministry of Interior and review by the newly formed Pakistan Authority for Space and Regulatory Bodies (PASRB).
Senator Palwasha Khan expressed outrage over Elon Musk’s alleged social media remarks against Pakistan, accusing him of aligning with India’s narrative. “It seems Musk has partnered with India to propagate false allegations against Pakistan,” she remarked. Senator Afnan Ullah Khan insisted Starlink’s licensing be conditional on Musk issuing a public apology for his remarks.
Despite controversies, Minister Shazia Fatima announced that Starlink had officially registered in Pakistan. Elon Musk confirmed negotiations with the government through a social media post. The developments highlight both the potential and challenges of integrating advanced digital technologies into Pakistan’s infrastructure, where political and security concerns intertwine with technological progress.
