ISLAMABAD: Political and social media export analyst Dr. Farhan Virk has leveled serious has revealed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) social media head Jibran Ilyas holds real control over the party.
. He claimed that neither party leader Aleema Khan nor any other official holds real control over the party. Instead, he said, all authority rests with Ilyas, who is based in the United States.
According to Dr. Farhan Virk, Jibran Ilyas instructs Aleema Khan and other PTI leaders on when and what statements to issue. He dismissed claims that Aleema Khan speaks independently and said PTI’s social media strategy is entirely directed from abroad.
Dr. Farhan Virk further alleged that Ilyas worked for the United States Secret Service in 2010. In 2011, he reportedly assumed control of PTI’s official social media platforms. Since then, Dr. Farhan Virk said, Ilyas has operated behind the scenes, guiding the party’s online direction.
He also claimed that in 2019, Ilyas had full access to PTI’s “Rabita App,” which the party introduced that year. According to Farhan Virk, modern mobile apps can analyze user data and digital behavior. This allows identification of individuals’ interests, psychological tendencies, and vulnerabilities.
He said PTI collected behavioral data on party workers and supporters through the app. He alleged the purpose was to promote specific narratives and influence young people mentally. He added that the data extended beyond ID cards or passports and included individuals’ psychology, preferences, and reactions.
He claimed this data was used to guide PTI Youth in thinking along specific lines. According to Farhan Virk, this influenced the mental makeup of young people and mobilized them under provocative messaging.
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The allegations have sparked fresh debate in political circles.
