Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has alleged electoral irregularities in the recent Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK) elections, claiming that the public mandate in the Mirpur and Kotli constituencies was undermined. He urged the relevant authorities to ensure a transparent investigation into the reported complaints.
Addressing a PPP workers’ convention in Muzaffarabad, Bilawal thanked voters in Mirpur for supporting his party and said the election process should fully reflect the will of the people. He alleged that decisions were being made in a way that favoured the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), adding that such an approach could have broader implications for both Kashmir and Pakistan.
The PPP chairman said the state should prioritise the national interest above the interests of any political party. He stated that his party supports Pakistan’s national interests and stressed that democratic institutions should ensure equal treatment for all political stakeholders.
Bilawal also raised concerns about internet restrictions and the overall electoral environment, arguing that free, fair, and transparent elections are essential to maintaining public confidence in the democratic process. He called for an electoral framework that provides equal opportunities to all contesting parties.
He further alleged that PPP workers had been targeted during the election campaign and claimed that around 30 polling stations came under attack despite security arrangements. Bilawal questioned how such incidents could occur and called for a thorough inquiry into the reported events.
The PPP chairman also criticised the phased conduct of the elections, alleging that it created opportunities for manipulation. He maintained that his party would continue to pursue legal and constitutional avenues to safeguard the votes of its supporters and protect the democratic process.
The Election Commission of AJK has not yet issued an official response to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s allegations. The claims represent the PPP’s position and remain subject to review by the relevant election authorities.
