In an unprecedented move, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) recently orchestrated a virtual rally featuring a speech by the party’s incarcerated leader, former Prime Minister Imran Khan, through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). This landmark event, the first of its kind in Pakistan, raises both eyebrows and excitement about the role of advanced technology in shaping the political landscape.
The virtual rally, designed to circumvent a government ban on public gatherings imposed on the PTI as it gears up for the upcoming general elections on February 8, showcased Khan delivering a four-minute address. Utilizing an AI-generated audio clip, the virtual presentation featured a digital representation of Khan, seamlessly blending with visuals from previous PTI rallies and Khan’s earlier speeches.
The PTI claims that the virtual rally garnered over five million views across various social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. However, the event faced challenges as several users reported internet disruptions during the live stream. NetBlocks, an internet tracking company, confirmed the disruptions, aligning with previous instances of online censorship targeting PTI.
Imran Khan’s AI-generated speech touched on the party’s alleged suppression, citing restrictions on public rallies, the abduction of party members, and harassment of their families. The speech carried a disclaimer, clarifying that it was based on notes from Khan while in prison.
Imran Khan has been in custody since August, initially convicted in a case related to the illegal selling of state gifts. Despite obtaining bail in that case, he remains incarcerated after being indicted for allegedly leaking state secrets. Khan vehemently denies these allegations, attributing the charges to a political ploy by the government and the military to sideline him and the PTI from the upcoming elections.
The virtual rally not only spotlighted the PTI’s innovative response to restrictions but also underscored the broader implications of AI in political discourse. Usama Khilji, a free speech activist in Pakistan, commended the PTI’s use of AI to broadcast a virtual speech in the absence of physical rallies. However, he cautioned against potential misuse of AI technology for disinformation and election manipulation.
The PTI’s groundbreaking use of AI demonstrates the evolving landscape of political communication and campaigning. While it showcases the adaptability of technology in navigating restrictions, it also sparks concerns about the ethical use of AI in influencing public opinion. As technology continues to play an integral role in shaping political narratives, the PTI’s virtual rally serves as a pivotal moment in the intersection of artificial intelligence and Pakistani politics.
