ISLAMABAD: A shocking report has been emerged that Rs80 million every month is the cost of a JUI-F-linked digital operation that runs paid social media campaigns across Pakistan and Afghanistan. The propaganda network is being run by Zia-ur-Rehman, brother of party chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
According to reports, the network employs a large number of paid social media operatives in both countries to promote the party’s political narrative and amplify its content across digital platforms.
The scale of funding raises a fundamental question: where does a religious political party, which traditionally relies on donations and charitable contributions, obtain such substantial resources to finance a digital operation of this size?
Moreover, reports claim that the network includes multiple paid social media accounts operating from Afghanistan. These accounts coordinate efforts to amplify JUI-F messaging, raising concerns about the funding, organisation and possible cross-border involvement behind the campaign.
The reported activities also invite scrutiny of the party’s own ideological position. JUI-F leaders and supporters have, at times, criticised major social media platforms over their ownership and perceived ideological influence. Yet the alleged network reportedly relies heavily on X, Facebook and TikTok to advance its political messaging.
More seriously, the report raises questions about whether public-facing religious messaging is being used to justify abusive online campaigns, misinformation and hostility against political opponents and state institutions.
Reports further claim that some operatives receive monthly salaries of up to Rs200,000. If verified, such payments would demand a clear explanation of the network’s funding sources, payroll arrangements and the activities for which these individuals receive compensation.
The allegations place Zia-ur-Rehman and the JUI-F leadership under pressure to clarify who finances the operation, who directs its activities and whether any public, charitable or religious contributions support its reported expenses.
The matter also warrants scrutiny by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). However, any investigation must establish whether the network has engaged in unlawful activity, including coordinated disinformation, harassment, incitement or campaigns targeting national security.
A forensic examination of relevant financial records, bank accounts and funding channels could help establish the source and movement of the reported funds. Investigators should also identify the individuals and organisations allegedly involved in managing the network in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
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Until independently verified, the reported funding figures, cross-border operations and allegations of unlawful online activity remain claims rather than established facts.
Nevertheless, the questions are too serious to ignore. The relevant authorities should investigate the allegations transparently and hold anyone responsible accountable under the law.
