MUZAFFARABAD: The three phases of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections have concluded, with polling completed on 38 seats.
Elections are yet to be held in seven constituencies, after which reserved seats will be distributed under the principle of proportional representation.
PML‑N in commanding position
According to results so far, the Pakistan Muslim League‑Nawaz (PML‑N) has secured 25 seats, making it the largest party and placing it in a strong position to form the government.
With six reserved seats expected to be added to its tally, the party’s strength could rise to 30 seats in the 53‑member assembly, comfortably above the 27 seats required for a majority.
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has won 12 seats, emerging as the second largest party, while the Awami Dasta‑o‑Bazu Party has secured one seat. No independent candidate has been successful in the three phases.
Regional breakdown
- In Mirpur division, PML‑N won 9 seats, PPP 4.
- In Muzaffarabad division, PML‑N secured 5 seats, PPP 4.
- Out of 12 refugee seats, PML‑N won 10, PPP 2.
- In Bagh and Haveli districts of Poonch division, PPP won 2 seats, while PML‑N and Awami Dasta‑o‑Bazu Party took one seat each.
Polling dates for the remaining seven constituencies in Poonch and Sidhnoti districts are yet to be announced.
Controversial backdrop
Despite PML‑N’s commanding lead, these elections have been widely described as the most controversial in AJK’s history.
Earlier phases were marred by clashes in Nakyal, riots in Samahni, and violence in Rawlakot, while the PPP repeatedly alleged rigging, fake voting, and attacks on its leaders and workers.
The Election Commission has rejected these claims, insisting the process was conducted transparently under the supervision of the army and Rangers.
Political analysts note that while PML‑N is poised to form the next government, the credibility of the electoral process remains under scrutiny, raising questions about the legitimacy of the assembly that will emerge once the final phase and reserved seats are settled.
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