Former president Pervez Musharraf might not have many fans on the traditional media front, but he has outgunned all local political figures including Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan when it comes to Facebook.
Keeping the page more personal and less official, Musharraf currently has over 800,000 likes and over 200,000 ‘talking about this’ (a metric that gauges user engagement levels) on his official Facebook page.
The number of likes exceed those on Imran Khan’s official page which has 688,416 likes and over 70,000 ‘talking about this’.
Musharraf’s page gained momentum when the former dictator announced a “grand” return to Pakistan, ending his self-imposed exile. Photographs — apparently taken from cell phone cameras — have kept Musharraf’s followers updated and entertained with his activities.
The engaging Facebook updates began on March 24 when Musharraf shared a Photoshopped image of his arrival at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi.
I will arrive in Karachi today, March 24th 2013, at 1pm and address a public rally at the airport at 5pm in the evening. PM
Musharraf then shared a picture of himself leaving his home in Dubai for the airport.
Leaving my house in Dubai to begin my journey home
For those who still did not believe Musharraf was returning, the former dictator shared a picture of himself sitting in the plane destined for Karachi.
Settled in my seat on the plane to begin my journey home. Pakistan First!
This was only the beginning. Musharraf went on a picture-sharing spree covering every event and activity he undertook — including some very offbeat choices. In the photo share below, Musharraf made light of Taliban threats against him.
Taliban threat? NOT ON MY WATCH!!!
On the morning of March 28 (today), the former dictator did not forget his obligation to share a “Good Morning” picture with his followers.
Starting my day with a workout. Feel very energized.
While Musharraf’s political future remains questionable, the leader’s online ‘charisma’ will ensure high levels of engagement for some time to come.