"Army Uniform Is Part Of My Skin": A Critical Discourse Analysis of ICT Growth and Politics in Pakistan

In: International journal of e-politics: IJEP ; an official publication of the Information Resources Management Association, Band 2, Heft 3, S. 27-34

Abstract

This paper discusses implications of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) growth on the new political discourse in Pakistan. The power play between the civil society and General Pervez Musharraf set new directions for Pakistani politics in 2007. This paper presents a critical discourse analysis of the controversy surrounding Musharraf's attempt to continue holding the offices of army chief and president of Pakistan simultaneously. He declared "army uniform is part of my skin". The civil society's online participation in the political process and the street protests that resulted forced him to flee the country. The paper offers an analysis of ICT growth and politics in Pakistan and provides an understanding of how ICT growth has shaped the political landscape in Pakistan. Social and electronic media have emerged as powerful political players and have influenced Pakistani politics and policy development. This critical discourse analysis explains political changes during 2007 that are generally attributed to ICT growth. The results indicate that ICT growth plays an important role in achieving harmony, coordination, social change, justice, and transparency of government. Adapted from the source document.