Bilawal demands transparent AJK election process

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called for a fair and transparent electoral process in

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called for a fair and transparent electoral process in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), saying the Election Commission’s duty is to protect the people’s vote rather than support any political party.

In a statement regarding the first phase of the AJK elections, Bilawal said the credibility of the entire electoral process would depend on ensuring justice and transparency at the initial stage.

He urged the Election Commission to address all complaints related to alleged rigging and irregularities before August 2 through open hearings. He also demanded that polling station results and election records be made available to the public to remove doubts and increase confidence in the process.

The PPP chairman said his party was not seeking anyone’s favour or special treatment. He said the demand was only for the right to participate in clean, transparent and impartial elections.

Bilawal emphasized that the Election Commission should remain neutral and perform its constitutional responsibilities without any pressure. He said the institution’s main responsibility was to safeguard the mandate given by voters.

He added that protecting the people’s vote was essential for strengthening democracy and ensuring that the voices of Kashmir’s residents were properly represented.

The PPP leader’s statement came amid political discussions over the first phase of the AJK elections, with parties raising concerns and demanding a transparent mechanism to address electoral complaints.