In today's world, media plays an undeniable role in shaping public opinion and influencing political discourse. Its reach has expanded dramatically, making it an essential tool in the process of political engagement, social cohesion, and democratic accountability. However, the media's power to influence and control narratives also raises critical concerns. In Pakistan, the media's influence is more complex than ever before. From its transformation from state-controlled broadcasting to a vibrant and diverse mix of print, radio, television, and digital media, the Pakistani media has become both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it has served as a crucial player in political movements, fostering democracy, and empowering the public. On the other hand, it has often been accused of spreading misinformation, creating political biases, and contributing to societal division. As the country moves into the 21st century, the question remains: is the media a blessing or a curse?
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One of the most prominent examples of the media's positive role in Pakistan's history is its involvement in the Lawyers' Movement from 2007 to 2009. The media, particularly independent channels such as Geo News, ARY, and Aaj TV, played a pivotal role in mobilizing public support for judicial independence. When then-President Pervez Musharraf dismissed Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry, the media exposed the government's actions, broadcasting live feeds of protests, police crackdowns, and speeches by legal experts. These broadcasts not only informed the public but also galvanized support for the movement, transforming it into a national cause. The media’s ability to shape public opinion during this time is reflected in the success of the Long March in 2009, which ultimately led to the reinstatement of Iftikhar Chaudhry as chief justice. According to Gallup Pakistan, over 70 percent of Pakistanis supported the judiciary's restoration, a testament to the media's role in driving this public sentiment. The Lawyers' Movement is a prime example of how the media, when used responsibly, can serve as a tool for democratic change and accountability.
Furthermore, the media played a crucial role during the 2013 general elections in Pakistan. The extensive coverage of the elections by television channels and social media helped to increase voter awareness and engagement. In particular, channels like Geo News, ARY News, and Dunya News provided live debates, party manifestos, and coverage of rallies, helping voters make informed decisions. The rise of digital media also played a significant role, with hashtags like #VoteForChange trending on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. According to Gallup Pakistan, 84 percent of urban voters used television as their primary source of information, while 30 percent relied on social media. The media's ability to shape political narratives and inform voters led to an unprecedented voter turnout of 55%, the highest in Pakistan's electoral history at that time. While media bias in favor of certain political parties was evident, the media still played an essential role in encouraging political participation and voter engagement, which contributed to the democratic transition.
In addition, the media has proven to be an invaluable tool in times of national crises, such as during the 2022 floods and the COVID-19 pandemic. The widespread coverage of the devastating floods brought international attention to Pakistan's plight, mobilizing humanitarian aid from around the world. News outlets not only reported on the disaster but also highlighted the needs of the affected communities, helping to rally support for relief efforts. Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the media played a crucial role in spreading health awareness, educating the public on preventive measures, and debunking misinformation. The National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) worked closely with media outlets to disseminate information on lockdowns, social distancing, and vaccination drives. According to a 2021 survey, 78 percent of Pakistanis relied on television for COVID-19 updates, while 55 percent depended on government briefings. The media's role in spreading accurate information during these crises has been crucial in managing public health emergencies and mobilizing national and international support.
However, despite its positive contributions, the media in Pakistan has also faced significant criticism for its role in spreading misinformation, fueling political polarization, and amplifying societal divisions. The 2014 PTI and PAT protests serve as a prime example of how media can exacerbate political tensions. The protests, led by Imran Khan and Tahir ul Qadri, aimed to oust Nawaz Sharif’s government, alleging electoral fraud and police brutality. The media's coverage of the protests, particularly through channels like ARY and Bol News, often appeared to favor the protesters, while Geo News and PTV were accused of siding with the government. The sensationalist nature of the coverage, coupled with live broadcasts of clashes and speeches, further polarized public opinion and intensified the political divide. Gallup Pakistan reported that 64 percent of people watched the protests on television, and 40 percent believed that media had contributed to the crisis's escalation. The media’s role in amplifying political grievances during the protests highlights how unchecked media coverage can fuel conflict rather than fostering constructive dialogue.
The Panama Papers leak in 2016 also underscores the power of media to influence political events and public opinion. The leaked documents exposed the offshore accounts of numerous political figures, including former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The media’s extensive coverage of the scandal, particularly on channels like Geo News, ARY, and Dunya News, forced the issue into the national spotlight. The revelations of corruption were debated on talk shows, with legal experts and opposition leaders calling for accountability. Social media also played a role, with hashtags like #PanamaLeaks and #NawazCorruption trending on platforms like Twitter. According to a survey conducted by Gallup Pakistan, 77 percent of Pakistanis believed that corruption was widespread in the country, and the media’s relentless coverage of the Panama Papers helped fuel public outrage. The scandal ultimately led to Nawaz Sharif’s disqualification under Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution, showing the media's power to hold politicians accountable. However, some critics argue that media outlets were biased in their reporting, and the relentless focus on corruption contributed to the destabilization of the political landscape.
Moreover, the media’s influence in the 2018 general elections cannot be overlooked. Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party won a historic victory, largely due to the media's portrayal of Khan as a champion of anti-corruption and political reform. Media outlets, both traditional and digital, amplified Khan’s anti-corruption message, which resonated with the public, especially following the Panama Papers scandal. Social media campaigns like #TabdiliAagaiHai (Change has come) and #CorruptionFreePakistan helped mobilize support for PTI, particularly among the youth. Television channels and talk shows played a crucial role in framing the narrative of the election, with PTI positioning itself as a party of change and accountability. Gallup Pakistan found that 64 percent of Pakistanis believed corruption was the most important issue in the 2018 elections, and the media’s portrayal of PTI as a corruption-free alternative contributed to its electoral success. However, critics argue that the media's bias in favor of PTI and its relentless focus on corruption led to an unfair political narrative, diminishing the role of opposition parties and undermining the democratic process.
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Despite its contributions to political mobilization and public awareness, the media in Pakistan is not without its flaws. The rise of digital media and social media platforms has amplified political polarization, with different media outlets presenting conflicting narratives that reinforce ideological divides. The 2023 political crisis, marked by Imran Khan’s arrest and subsequent protests, exposed the media’s role in amplifying political divisions. The coverage of the events was highly polarized, with pro-government media outlets accusing the opposition of instigating violence, while opposition-aligned media criticized the government for its crackdown on dissent. The widespread dissemination of videos and social media posts further fueled the political divide, with both sides using media platforms to mobilize support. In response to the unrest, the government imposed an internet blackout, limiting access to social media platforms and news outlets. Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International, condemned the move, calling it an attack on freedom of expression. The 2023 crisis demonstrated how media can be both a force for good and a tool for manipulation, depending on how it is used.
In conclusion, media in Pakistan plays a dual role, serving as both a blessing and a curse. It has the power to inform, educate, and mobilize the public, as seen during the Lawyers’ Movement, the 2013 and 2018 elections, and national crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 floods. However, it also has the potential to spread misinformation, fuel political polarization, and exacerbate societal divisions, as demonstrated during the 2014 PTI and PAT protests, the Panama Papers scandal, and the 2023 political unrest. The key to ensuring that media remains a force for good lies in responsible journalism, ethical reporting, and media literacy among the public. If these principles are upheld, the media can continue to play a crucial role in shaping Pakistan’s political future, fostering democracy, and holding the government accountable.
