PTI founder’s X account being operated from US, says Raoof Hasan.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has revealed that the official X account of its founder, Imran Khan, is being operated by a social media team based in the United States.
This disclosure was made by PTI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan during an appearance on ARY News’ programme ‘Off the Record.’
Hasan clarified that since Khan’s imprisonment, he has had no direct access to or control over his social media handles.
The revelation comes amid controversy surrounding a video related to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman that was posted on Khan’s X account, which led to significant backlash.
“Imran Khan is currently in jail and cannot upload videos himself,” Hasan explained.
“Our social media team in the US manages the party’s accounts. Imran Khan was unaware of the video in question, and any retweets by party members were done in their personal capacity.”
Also read: Controversial tweet: Imran Khan refuses to meet FIA probe team in Adiala jail
In response to the uproar, Hasan assured that an internal inquiry would be conducted.
“I haven’t personally seen the video due to other commitments, but if it contains anything objectionable, I will address it with our social media team. If the content contradicts the party’s narrative, it will be rectified.”
What happened with Raoof Hasan was wrong, but what he’s doing right now is unacceptable. He said, “I don’t know who’s handling Imran Khan’s account”. The reality is, he instructs @agentjay2009 to post propaganda against the state, it’s all planned. Jhoota!pic.twitter.com/8h7qS0CGfu
— Saad Kaiser 🇵🇰 (@TheSaadKaiser) May 31, 2024
The controversy has escalated to the point where the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Cell has become involved.
They have written to authorities seeking access to Khan in prison to question him about the video, which they allege disseminates anti-state propaganda, incites rebellion among military personnel, and creates unrest within state institutions.
The FIA contends that the video is a violation of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.
Hasan reiterated the party’s commitment to cooperating with any investigation.
He also mentioned that the individuals managing the social media accounts are not formal employees of PTI, and there has been a lack of proper oversight in the management of these accounts.
To prevent future issues, Hasan announced plans to implement a system that ensures all posts from the official X account receive proper clearance.
“Imran Khan had made a decision regarding the management of his X handle, but it was not implemented. We will now ensure strict controls are in place.”
Despite the ongoing investigation, Hasan emphasized Imran Khan’s stance on the importance of the Pakistan Army.
“Imran Khan has always maintained that the Pakistan Army is important for the country, more so than any individual,” he quoted Khan as saying.
