MUZAFFARABAD: The Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, has announced that polling in the postponed LA‑27 Muzaffarabad‑1 constituency will now be held on Tuesday, August 4.
Speaking to the media, Mughal explained that the election had to be postponed due to heavy rains, landslides, and fallen trees overnight, which blocked roads and prevented polling staff and election materials from reaching their destinations.
AJK: Polling in LA‑27 Muzaffarabad‑1 postponed due to landslides
He emphasized that in a democratic state, change comes only through voting, describing voting as an Islamic duty that citizens must fulfill. “The path of change should be paved through ballots, not violence,” he remarked.
The Chief Election Commissioner added that he expects a better turnout from Mirpur division, noting that immediate action is taken on any complaints received.
He stressed that the Commission will act strictly according to the law and will not come under pressure from any quarter. Mughal also highlighted that strict security arrangements have been made at sensitive polling stations.
Meanwhile, polling continues today in the second phase of AJK elections, covering 9 seats in Muzaffarabad division and 12 refugee seats across Pakistan. More than 4,000 security personnel have been deployed, with the armed forces’ Quick Response Force also present to safeguard voters.
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The announcement comes after a turbulent first phase in Mirpur division, marred by clashes in Nakyal, riots in Samahni, and violence in Rawlakot, incidents that mainstream media has largely avoided highlighting.
Opposition parties, particularly the PPP, have repeatedly accused the Election Commission of ignoring irregularities and alleged political bribes by the PML‑N, while the Commission continues to insist that the process remains transparent and impartial.
