The federal government has appointed Barrister Syed Azfar Ali Nasir as chairman of the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) for five years.
According to an official notification issued on October 30, the appointment was made under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025.
Nasir previously served as a minister in Punjab’s caretaker government led by Mohsin Naqvi in 2023. He held portfolios covering Auqaf, Religious Affairs, Zakat, and Ushr, along with responsibilities related to Housing and Urban Development.
He also remained involved in development projects during his time in the caretaker cabinet, including initiatives linked to urban infrastructure.
As SMPRA chairman, Nasir will oversee the authority responsible for regulating social media platforms in Pakistan. The authority can issue compliance directions, address complaints and take action against platforms that violate applicable laws.
The appointment comes as Pakistan continues implementing its amended cybercrime legislation, which introduced a formal regulatory framework for social media platforms.
