The AJK Elections 2026 entered a crucial stage as the first phase of polling concluded across Mirpur Division, covering 13 constituencies. Despite isolated incidents of violence, election authorities described the overall voting process as largely peaceful, with strict security arrangements ensuring that millions of eligible voters were able to exercise their democratic right. The first phase marks an important milestone in the election process that will determine the future political leadership of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
More than 1.4 million registered voters were eligible to cast their ballots during the opening phase of the elections. The Election Commission established thousands of polling stations across Mirpur, Kotli, and Bhimber districts to facilitate voters. Authorities also extended polling by one hour, allowing voting to continue until 6:00 PM before the counting process officially began.
Strong Voter Participation Across Mirpur Division
The AJK Elections 2026 featured a highly competitive political contest, with 296 candidates contesting seats across 13 constituencies. Major political parties, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), and several independent candidates, fielded nominees to compete for public support.
Election officials confirmed that the voter list included over 725,000 male voters and approximately 676,000 female voters. Polling stations were spread strategically throughout the division, ensuring convenient access for voters in both urban and rural areas.
Security personnel remained deployed throughout the region to maintain order and prevent disruptions during the voting process.
Extensive Security Measures Implemented
Given the significance of the AJK Elections 2026, authorities introduced comprehensive security arrangements to ensure transparent and peaceful polling.
AJK Chief Election Commissioner Justice (Retd.) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal warned that anyone attempting to interfere with the electoral process would face strict legal consequences. Law enforcement agencies monitored polling stations throughout the day, while election staff worked closely with security officials to maintain order.
AJK Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan also expressed confidence in the democratic process, stating that all government institutions were fully prepared to conduct free and peaceful elections. He emphasized that any attempt to disturb public order would be dealt with according to the law.
Isolated Violence During Polling
Although polling remained peaceful in most constituencies, one tragic incident occurred in LA-9 Kotli-II Nakyal, where a shooting resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to three others.
Police temporarily suspended voting at the affected polling station following the incident.
PPP officials identified the deceased as Mukhtar Younis, a party worker. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the victim’s family. The party also alleged that supporters of a rival candidate were involved in the firing.
Authorities immediately launched an investigation into the incident while maintaining security across the remaining polling stations.
Ballot Box Set on Fire in Bhimber
Another major incident during the AJK Elections 2026 occurred in LA-6 Bhimber, where clashes between workers of rival political parties disrupted polling.
According to election officials, unidentified individuals allegedly snatched a ballot box from the polling station and set it on fire. The destroyed ballot box reportedly contained 232 votes.
The District Returning Officer confirmed that legal proceedings had been initiated against those responsible. Officials stated that a decision regarding possible re-polling at the affected station would be announced after reviewing the situation.
Apart from this isolated incident, election authorities confirmed that polling remained normal at other stations.
Political Parties Exchange Allegations
The election campaign remained highly charged as political parties exchanged accusations throughout polling day.
PPP leaders criticized alleged attempts to influence the election process, while PML-N representatives rejected the allegations and expressed confidence in their electoral performance.
PPP Vice President Sherry Rehman maintained that Kashmiri voters were fully capable of making independent political decisions and urged respect for the democratic process.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah stated that, except for one major security incident, polling remained largely peaceful across the region. He praised election officials and security agencies for successfully managing the process despite the challenging weather conditions.
Election Officials Review Complaints
Election authorities also reviewed complaints submitted by various candidates during polling.
Former Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq raised concerns regarding polling arrangements in one constituency. The District Returning Officer personally visited the relevant polling stations and confirmed that polling agents from all participating parties were present.
Officials assured candidates that every complaint would be investigated fairly and according to election laws.
Importance of the First Phase
The AJK Elections 2026 represent an important democratic exercise for the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The first phase will significantly influence the political landscape ahead of the remaining rounds of voting scheduled for other divisions.
Political analysts believe that voter turnout, campaign performance, and public confidence in the electoral process will play a decisive role in determining the final outcome.
Despite a few isolated incidents, the successful completion of the first phase demonstrates the commitment of election authorities and security institutions to protecting the democratic process.
With vote counting underway, political parties are closely monitoring early trends while awaiting official results from the Election Commission.
The remaining phases of the AJK Elections 2026 are expected to receive equal attention as parties continue campaigning across other regions. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring transparency, fairness, and public safety throughout the entire election process.
As Azad Jammu and Kashmir moves toward completing this important electoral exercise, citizens remain hopeful that the final outcome will reflect the will of the people and contribute to democratic stability and future development in the region.
