AJK elections 2026 final candidate list released

The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has officially released the final list of candidates for the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections, confirming that 852 candidates will contest 45 general seats across the region.

The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has officially released the final list of candidates for the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections, confirming that 852 candidates will contest 45 general seats across the region.

According to the Election Commission, more than 320 candidates withdrew their nomination papers during the scrutiny and withdrawal process, leaving a competitive field for the upcoming elections. The final candidate list reflects strong political participation from both established parties and independent contenders.

The highest number of candidates will contest from Kotli, where 135 candidates are competing for six constituencies. Muzaffarabad follows with 126 candidates contesting five constituencies, while Poonch and Sudhnoti have a combined 126 candidates competing across seven constituencies.

Other districts also witnessed significant electoral interest. Mirpur has 98 candidates contesting four constituencies, while Bagh and Haveli have 83 candidates across four seats. In Bhimber, 63 candidates will contest three constituencies, whereas Neelum Valley has 51 candidates for two constituencies. Jhelum Valley will see 34 candidates competing for its available seats.

The Election Commission also confirmed that 126 candidates will compete for the 12 reserved refugee constituencies, highlighting strong participation in constituencies representing refugees from Jammu and Kashmir.

As part of the election preparations, the Commission has allocated official election symbols to 24 registered political parties. Election symbols for independent candidates are expected to be issued in the coming days, allowing them to begin full-scale campaign activities ahead of polling.

Election officials stated that the publication of the final candidate list marks another important milestone in the electoral process. Necessary administrative arrangements are being finalized to ensure that polling is conducted in a transparent, peaceful, and orderly manner.

The 2026 AJK elections are expected to attract significant public interest, with political parties intensifying their campaigns across the region. Voters will elect representatives who will form the next Legislative Assembly and play a key role in shaping the region’s governance and development priorities.

The Election Commission has urged candidates to comply with the election code of conduct and encouraged voters to participate responsibly in the democratic process.