The use of artificial intelligence (AI) by politicians, particularly during elections, has become a notable trend, highlighted by these examples here and here by the AI Insider.
In a striking example, Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former prime minister currently in prison, has leveraged AI technology to address his supporters. Despite being barred from public rallies, Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, hosted a virtual rally, marking the country’s first event of this kind.
“Our party is not allowed to hold public rallies,” Khan said in the clip, encouraging supporters to participate in high numbers in the general elections scheduled for February 8. “Our people are being kidnapped and their families are being harassed.”
During this online event, an AI-generated audio clip of Khan’s speech was played alongside an AI-created image that simulated him speaking. This virtual rally attracted over 1.4 million views on YouTube and saw substantial live participation on other social media platforms. However, internet disruptions during the live streaming raised questions about transparency in the upcoming elections, with widespread complaints about slow internet and throttling, a method used to limit streaming speeds. Pakistan’s telecoms regulator acknowledged these issues and launched an investigation, though they noted that overall internet access seemed normal.
Party officials revealed that the speech was developed from a text approved by Khan in prison. The event was organized in response to a crackdown on physical gatherings and media blackouts affecting the party and its leader.
Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 5 after being convicted of graft charges, faces numerous legal battles, including some trials conducted in prison. Legal experts have raised concerns about the fairness of these proceedings. Murtaza Solangi, the information minister of Pakistan’s interim government overseeing the elections, suggested directing queries about internet disruptions to the telecom regulator or the ministry of information technology, claiming no direct knowledge of the situation.
Khan’s political journey has been tumultuous, especially since his removal as prime minister last year following a vote of confidence in parliament. His ouster was followed by a crackdown on his party and a controversial assault on military sites by his supporters. Khan, who won the 2018 general election amid allegations of military assistance, attributes his political downfall to a disagreement with military generals, a claim the military denies.
Featured image: Imran Khan. Credit: The Guardian
