AJK Elections confirmed for July 27, delay rumours rejected

The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has confirmed that general elections will be held on July 27 as

The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has confirmed that general elections will be held on July 27 as scheduled. It rejected reports suggesting any delay in the polling process.

A spokesperson for the commission said the election schedule was issued on June 5 in line with constitutional requirements. The schedule also reflects the completion of the current AJK Assembly’s tenure.

The commission stated that rumours about postponement were baseless. It added that no political motive was behind the announcement of the electoral timetable.

Officials stressed that holding free, fair, and timely elections is a constitutional responsibility. They said the process will continue as planned without any changes in polling day.

The clarification came after political debate over the election timeline. Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had called the schedule “premature” and urged it to be reconsidered.

He also said his party wanted a broader political solution for the region. He suggested the formation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address long-standing issues.

On the other hand, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the PPP had not consulted the PML-N regarding any proposal to delay the polls. He said the election schedule was not set on the demand of any political party.

He confirmed that elections must be held before August 4 according to constitutional limits. He added that while some administrative deadlines, such as nomination submissions, could be adjusted if needed, the polling date would remain unchanged.

The minister said the government supports timely elections to ensure political stability in the region. He added that elections are the proper way to resolve ongoing issues.

He also said the overall situation in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad divisions is calm. However, some tensions were reported in Rawalakot.

He expressed regret over recent unrest in the area and urged protesters to end sit-ins. He called for maintaining peace so that the electoral process can proceed smoothly.