THE government’s lofty plans for the 5G spectrum auction are an insult to the collective intelligence of the people. What use is faster internet when the state is determined to police every byte of data its citizens consume? The government speaks of “digital economy” and “innovative applications” while simultaneously deploying its ‘web management system’ — which had sparked complaints of internet slowdowns — and demanding VPN registrations, a contradiction that would be comical if it were not so concerning. This disparity makes evident the state’s real priorities: control over progress and surveillance over service. Social media platforms such as X, Instagram, and TikTok have already been restricted, with their service degraded. But the government’s frequent internet throttling has disrupted lives and livelihoods too. Our IT sector, which had been growing at an impressive 30pc annually, now faces existential threats from these very policies. Fortune 500 clients are reconsidering their partnerships, freelancers struggle with unreliable connections, and tech companies contemplate relocation. Yet, the government is fixated on implementing national firewalls under the guise of ‘combating obscenity’ and ‘terrorism’ rather than fostering digital innovation. This 5G charade is nothing but an attempt to deflect attention from its own draconian policies.

The state must realise this is a destructive course. Instead of pursuing illusory control through digital curbs, it should focus on creating an environment where 5G technology could actually benefit citizens. It must restore internet freedoms, engage transparently with stakeholders, and prioritise economic growth over surveillance. The path to real digital transformation lies not through firewalls and VPN registrations, but through trust, freedom, and innovation. To “enhance connectivity and improve digital infrastructure”, the government must prove its commitment to digital rights through creating an enabling environment for businesses to operate in. Otherwise, these plans will remain what they are: empty promises in an increasingly restricted digital landscape.

Published in Dawn, December 2nd, 2024