Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission Secretary Raja Muhammad Shakeel announced on Saturday that all preparations have been completed to ensure the peaceful conduct of the second phase of elections scheduled for Sunday in the Muzaffarabad division.
During a joint press briefing, Secretary Shakeel and Senior Member Muhammad Ahsan encouraged the public to participate actively in the voting process and select their preferred representatives. They emphasized that voting is a vital democratic exercise, allowing citizens to influence legislation through their elected officials.
The second phase of the AJK Legislative Assembly elections will take place in Muzaffarabad on Sunday. Voters will cast ballots not only for the general constituencies within the division but also for 12 refugee seats.
In the first phase held in the Mirpur division, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz secured nine seats, while the Pakistan Peoples Party won four out of the 13 seats contested. Muhammad Ahsan highlighted that the voter turnout in Mirpur reached 46%, exceeding the usual 40% to 42% participation rate.
He described the current situation in Muzaffarabad as peaceful and normal, noting that polling staff and election materials have already been dispatched to their respective polling stations. He expressed optimism that voter enthusiasm in Muzaffarabad would match that seen in Mirpur.
Secretary Shakeel confirmed there are no law and order issues reported in the Muzaffarabad division.
Meanwhile, AJK Chief Election Commissioner Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal stated that the law and order environment in Muzaffarabad has improved significantly. He confirmed that election materials have been delivered to polling stations and presiding officers have departed for their constituencies.
Justice Mughal identified LA-5 Khawra and LA-3 Lajra as the two most sensitive constituencies in Muzaffarabad, where additional security forces have been deployed. A quick response team will remain on standby to address any emergencies.
He further revealed that 18,000 security personnel, including police, Rangers, and other law enforcement agencies, have been assigned to election duties in Muzaffarabad to maintain order.
Looking ahead, elections in the Poonch division are scheduled for August 10, with the situation to be assessed as the date approaches. Justice Mughal also mentioned that the environment is favorable for elections in Bagh and Haveli, while the schedule for Poonch may be adjusted if necessary.
