Social media wars: To end mud-slinging, PTI issues a code of conduct

Party leaders say other political groups should also encourage healthy dialogue.

KARACHI: Accusations, counter accusations and insults have been the bane of politics in Pakistan - especially among the riled up youths engaged in social media wars. For this purpose, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) - known to have some of the most ‘vocal’ supporters - has issued a code of conduct for users of social media who interact on behalf or in support of the party.

The PTI’s team for social media, Dr Awab Alvi, Imran Ghazali, Arsalan Ghumman and Anas Malik, said that violators would be banned and disciplinary action could also be taken against party office bearers and members. They were speaking at a press conference at the Karachi Press Club on Friday and were joined by the party’s general secretary, Dr Arif Alvi, and senior vice-president, Asad Malik.

“If a complaint is registered against abusive content on any site, we’ll take action against violators within three days after thorough investigation,” said Dr Awab. “Social media is a strong means of communication and we have hundreds of thousands of members at different sites, including Facebook and Twitter.”



Dr Arif said that freedom of expression applies to everyone but abusive language should be avoided and discouraged. “We want to change the culture and we expect other political parties to follow the same code of conduct.”

Talking about the party’s ideology, Ghazali said that PTI is dedicated to bringing about a positive and constructive change in the country. He urged the party’s supporters to embrace its core values which revolve around justice, humanity and self-esteem. “The social media code of conduct cover all social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, blogs, forums and other websites,” he explained.

Ghumman said that the code of conduct was for the PTI supporters and members who interacted through social media sites but hoped that other parties would encourage the same.

The leaders of PTI opined that it was not possible to stop people from using abusive language or derogatory remarks on the Web, but that is why a constructive environment to exchange views on political affairs should be encouraged.

Election and constitution

Speaking on the prevailing political situation, Dr Arif said that there was no need for new reforms in the country. “Everything is in the Constitution, only its implementation is required,” he said. “We [PTI] are with the Constitution and democracy. We appeal to the judiciary and army to support the Election Commission of Pakistan.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 5^th, 2013.