During a recent visit to Karachi, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the importance of integrating the entire economy through an ‘e-governance’ system. However, in a country where reliable internet connectivity is scarce, where communication networks are often compromised for surveillance purposes, and where government operations predominantly rely on traditional paper-based methods, the idea of a functional e-governance system seems overly optimistic.
The challenges that would arise from implementing such a system are considerable. For example, Pakistan has experienced frequent internet shutdowns, often imposed by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). If these disruptions were to coincide with key government operations, the consequences could be chaotic—official business would grind to a halt, and economic losses from internet shutdowns would multiply. Additionally, young people, who rely heavily on the internet for work, education, and entertainment, would be left frustrated and disconnected from their daily lives.
Pakistan has a poor track record when it comes to successfully implementing national technological solutions. A glaring example of this was the failure of the Election Management System, which was introduced by the Election Commission of Pakistan in the lead-up to the 2018 general elections. The system was touted as a robust solution capable of overcoming all challenges, including internet disruptions. However, when tested, it proved more inept than its predecessor.
This track record raises concerns about the feasibility of integrating various systems into one cohesive e-governance framework. Anyone who has visited a government office on a “system down” day can easily imagine the frustration and inefficiency that could result if such a system were to go offline.
Despite these concerns, the idea of e-governance is commendable and should be pursued. However, for it to succeed, the state needs to build a solid foundation, which includes developing technological expertise and ensuring that the right personnel are in charge of implementing these systems. At present, many of those tasked with overseeing IT-related affairs in Pakistan are either retired military personnel or bureaucrats with little experience in technology, which undermines the potential for real progress.
E-governance is undoubtedly the future, and it is not a novel concept. However, the state’s slow and often stumbling progress toward it highlights the need for proven experts to lead Pakistan’s digital transformation. As the prime minister rightly noted, better governance requires integrated systems, but the government must first create the necessary conditions for his vision to be fully realized.
