Gilgit Baltistan elections: polling underway as PML-N and PPP face tough contest

Gilgit: Polling is underway for elections to 24 general seats in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, with a closely fought contest expected between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

According to the Election Commission, a total of 958,480 registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots. Voting began at 8:00 a.m. and will continue uninterrupted until 5:00 p.m.

All arrangements for the elections have been finalized, while the distribution of election materials to polling stations across various constituencies has been completed.

Stringent security measures have been put in place to ensure the peaceful conduct of the elections. Personnel from the local police, Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts, and Punjab Police have been deployed across the region, while law enforcement agencies have also conducted flag marches in several constituencies.

The Election Commission stated that a total of 1,391 polling stations have been established across Gilgit-Baltistan's districts, including 488 normal, 349 sensitive, and 551 highly sensitive polling stations.

A total of 403 candidates are contesting the elections, including 396 male and eight female candidates.

According to official figures, the Pakistan Peoples Party has fielded 23 candidates, followed by PML-N with 22 candidates. The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party has 15 candidates in the race, while Pakistan Muslim League has fielded 11 candidates and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) has nine candidates.

In addition, Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen has seven candidates, while Jamaat-e-Islami and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) have fielded six candidates each. A total of 266 independent candidates are also contesting from various constituencies.

Political analysts believe the outcome of the elections will play a crucial role in shaping the future political landscape and government formation in Gilgit-Baltistan.