ISLAMABAD: Pakistani celebrities are turning to social media to encourage voter participation in the upcoming general elections on February 8, emphasizing the crucial role of public participation in deciding the country’s next rulers amid economic and political turmoil.
The elections represent a pivotal moment for Pakistan, with various parties voicing concerns about lack of level playing field.
Former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party has specifically pointed to legal challenges faced by its top leaders as attempts to exclude them from the political arena.
These allegations have fueled fears of election manipulation, with some analysts anticipating low voter turnout next week.
“There’s a rumor that many people are saying they are not going to vote,” television host and comedian Tabish Hashmi said in a video posted on Instagram. “After all, what’s the point? Those who are likely to triumph are going to win ... and elections will be manipulated.”
Hashmi countered the defeatist sentiment by arguing that those who opt out of voting relinquish their “right to complain” about the nation’s conditions, missing a chance for improvement.
He underscored that a full turnout of 120 million voters would demonstrate to any would-be manipulators that Pakistan’s electorate remains politically vigilant.
Much like Hashmi, writer, actor and theater director Osman Khalid Butt urged his followers to vote, asking them to utilize a service provided by Pakistan’s election regulator to locate their polling stations ahead of the election day.
“In case you haven’t already, message 8300 with your CNIC [computerized national identity cards number] to get details on your constituency and your polling station,” he said. “Make your voice count. Vote.”
Pakistani singer, songwriter and musician Asim Azhar echoed the same message.
“It’s people vs the system now,” he noted in a social media post. “They can ban everything but not what our heart says.”
“We need to show them the power of people against a corrupted system,” he added.
Shahveer Jafry, a social media influencer and aspiring filmmaker, reflected the electorate’s mood in his post.
“Angry? Good. Vote on 8th Feb!”
The rise of social media has significantly amplified the ability of celebrities around the world to make political statements, allowing them to reach a wide audience directly.
The involvement of celebrities in political matters has also become more visible in Pakistan, with public figures often commenting on national issues, endorsing political parties or seeking social change.
