Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has alleged electoral unfairness against the PPP. He claimed various tactics helped the PML-N during the recent general elections.
Rathore made the remarks while meeting a delegation from the All Kashmir Newspaper Society. The delegation was led by AKNS President Sardar Zahid Tabassum.
The AJK premier also identified the Joint Awami Action Committee movement as his government’s biggest challenge. He stressed that dialogue offered the only practical solution to the ongoing crisis.
Rathore Calls for Dialogue and Truth Commission
Rathore supported a Truth Commission proposed by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. He said the commission could provide all stakeholders with a path toward resolving the prevailing crisis.
Discussing Haveli’s election results, Rathore rejected claims that the 2026 polls faced major controversy. He described the elections as among the most peaceful contests in the district’s history.
He recalled unrest after the 2011 elections, including violence, damaged property, and burned shops. He also highlighted violence during the 2016 elections and tensions surrounding the 2021 polls.
PPP Plans Legal Response to Election Claims
Rathore said he did not interfere in the electoral process as prime minister. Meanwhile, he said the PPP would challenge allegations through constitutional and legal forums.
He claimed PPP victories in several constituencies later changed, including Nakyal, Sehnsa, Khuiratta, and Charhoi. He also named Kotla and Khawara among constituencies where results allegedly shifted against the PPP.
Rathore said PPP and PML-N leaders held several meetings about electoral complaints. He added that PML-N leadership had assured the PPP that authorities would address its concerns.
However, Rathore criticized the AJK PML-N leadership for pushing elections prematurely. He said the PPP wanted peace restored first, but the PML-N prioritized forming a government.
