Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday approved the formation of a 10-member Joint Task Force (JTF) to identify and prosecute individuals involved in spreading misinformation and inciting unrest following recent protests in Islamabad.
The task force was established in response to violent protests organized by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in November 2024, which resulted in clashes with security forces and caused significant economic disruption.
Composition of the Joint Task Force
The JTF will be led by the Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and will include representatives from key agencies, including the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Military Intelligence (MI), Intelligence Bureau (IB), the Ministry of Interior, and the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing. It will also collaborate with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Ministry of IT to tackle online disinformation campaigns.
PM’s Directive and Task Force Mandate
During a high-level meeting, PM Sharif declared that attacks on the state would not go unanswered. He emphasized the importance of bringing to justice those orchestrating anti-state campaigns. The task force’s responsibilities include:
- Identifying False Propaganda: Investigate those spreading fabricated stories during the Islamabad unrest, particularly from November 24 to 27, 2024.
- Targeting Domestic and Foreign Actors: Track both local and international individuals or groups responsible for promoting anti-state content, including foreign interference.
- Legal Action Against Instigators: Recommend measures under Pakistan’s anti-terrorism and cybercrime laws to prosecute those behind the campaigns.
- Policy Recommendations: Propose reforms to strengthen laws against digital propaganda and misinformation.
The JTF is expected to submit its findings and recommendations within 10 days.
Political and Economic Fallout of Islamabad Protests
The PTI-led protests, involving figures like Bushra Bibi and KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, turned violent on November 25-26, 2024, leading to injuries, property damage, and disruption in Islamabad. PM Sharif condemned PTI as a “group of sabotage,” accusing them of destabilizing Pakistan for political gain and tarnishing its global image.
Highlighting the economic toll, Sharif noted that past protests had cost the country billions daily, further straining the economy. Despite some signs of economic recovery, including declining inflation and a strong stock market, the Prime Minister warned against complacency, stressing that internal and external threats continue to challenge national stability.
