Polling for the first phase of the Azad Jammu Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections has officially started, with voters heading to polling stations across the Mirpur Division. The voting process began at 8:00 am and will continue until 5:00 pm without any break.
The first phase of the AJK Assembly elections is being held in three districts of Mirpur Division, including Mirpur, Kotli, and Bhimber. A total of 13 constituencies are participating in today’s electoral process, where 296 candidates are competing for seats.
According to election authorities, the three districts have a combined total of 1,401,439 registered voters. The voter list includes 725,118 male voters and 675,628 female voters who are eligible to cast their ballots in the first phase of the elections.
For smooth conduct of polling, a total of 2,454 polling stations have been established across Mirpur Division. In Mirpur district, 597 polling stations have been set up for four constituencies, while Kotli district has 1,107 polling stations for six constituencies. Bhimber district will conduct voting through 608 polling stations across three constituencies.
Major political parties, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and the Istahkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), are participating in the elections along with a large number of independent candidates. The contest is expected to draw significant public attention due to the political importance of the region.
Authorities have implemented strict security measures to ensure peaceful elections. AJK Chief Election Commissioner Justice (Retired) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal stated that legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the voting process or violate election rules.
AJK Chief Secretary Khushal Khan said that the people of Azad Kashmir have rejected elements creating unrest and have expressed confidence in the democratic process. He added that all state institutions are prepared to ensure peaceful polling, while individuals attempting to disturb law and order during elections will face legal consequences.
The first phase of the AJK Assembly elections is being closely monitored, with officials emphasizing transparency, security, and public participation throughout the voting process.
