More than one million voters will cast their ballots on Sunday as Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s elections enter the second phase. Polling will take place in nine constituencies of Muzaffarabad Division and 12 refugee constituencies representing people from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) settled in Pakistan.
The AJK Election Commission said all arrangements have been completed for peaceful, transparent and fair polling. Election materials have also reached polling stations across the nine constituencies and 12 refugee seats.
Election Commission Completes Polling Preparations
Chief Election Commissioner Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said polling materials are reaching the remaining constituencies. Meanwhile, polling staff have already departed for their assigned stations under strict security arrangements.
Additionally, the CEC urged citizens to participate actively in the democratic process. He described the vote as a sacred trust that should support honest and capable candidates. Consequently, officials expect a smooth polling process across all constituencies.
Second Phase Holds Major Political Importance
The second phase carries significant political importance after the first round of voting. Earlier, the PML-N secured nine of the 13 seats in Mirpur Division. Meanwhile, the PPP won the remaining four seats.
Today’s polling will determine whether the PML-N can strengthen its electoral lead. However, the PPP hopes to regain momentum during the second phase. Therefore, political observers are closely watching the outcome across Muzaffarabad Division and the refugee constituencies.
The Election Commission reiterated its commitment to conducting impartial elections. Furthermore, officials encouraged voters to cast their ballots in large numbers.
