Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has faced massive social media backlash after identifying a smartwatch in an AI-generated image of Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe. His one-word response to the viral puzzle sparked online criticism, with users questioning his social media activity amid Pakistan’s ongoing security and economic challenges. Some social media users called him a "pervert" and criticised the defence minister’s comment, arguing that it came at a time when parts of the country were witnessing protests. The criticism appeared to refer to protests in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following the imposition of emergency rule.
The controversy began on October 13, when an image of Monroe, dressed in 1950s-style clothing and standing beside vintage cars, circulated on X. The post challenged users to identify an object that did not belong to the year 1956.
Asif responded to the image with a single word, "Watch", accompanied by a smiling emoji. He correctly identified the modern smartwatch visible on Monroe’s wrist, an object that would have been out of place in the period depicted.
Social media users question minister's priorities
Although Asif identified the correct answer, his response quickly became a target of online mockery. Several users questioned why a senior government official responsible for defence matters was engaging with an internet puzzle while Pakistan faced pressing national challenges.
One user sarcastically introduced Asif as the defence minister of Pakistan, while another criticised his engagement with what appeared to be AI-generated content designed to attract online attention.
Other users questioned whether the minister’s social media activity reflected the seriousness expected of someone holding such a high-ranking government position.
Journalist’s explanation triggers more sarcasm
The episode took another humorous turn when journalist Nadir Baloch explained that the smartwatch was the object that did not belong in the 1956 setting.
Instead of ending the discussion, the explanation prompted further jokes, with some social media users sarcastically describing the journalist as an “investigative journalist” for pointing out the obvious clue.
The exchange added to the growing online discussion surrounding the minister’s interaction with the image.
Deleted post continues to Circulate
Asif later deleted his original post, but screenshots and reactions continued circulating on social media, keeping the incident in the spotlight.
The controversy was not about whether he had solved the puzzle correctly. Rather, the criticism centred on the perceived mismatch between the responsibilities of Pakistan’s defence minister and his participation in a viral online challenge.
The incident once again highlighted how seemingly minor social media interactions by public officials can attract widespread attention, particularly when critics believe their online conduct does not reflect the responsibilities of their office.