AJK Election Commission warns against violating code after PML-N’s pre-poll promises

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission has issued a stern warning against any violations of the election code of conduct, particularly in light of development promises made by the PML-N party during the ongoing campaign. The commission stated it will not permit any individual or institution to breach the established rules.

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The warning came after former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced development schemes, including the ‘gift’ of 10 e-buses at election rallies in Muzaffarabad and Mirpur.

The controversy erupted after former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced development initiatives, including the provision of 10 electric buses, at election rallies. These announcements were met with strong criticism from the PPP, which labeled them as "political bribery" and formally lodged a complaint with the Election Commission.

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The announcement did not go over well with the PPP, which described it as “political bribery”.

In response, an Election Commission spokesperson clarified the regulations for campaigning officials. While federal and provincial ministers are permitted to participate in electioneering within AJK, they are prohibited from utilizing official protocol, government resources, or state machinery for electoral purposes. The announcement of any new development schemes, financial packages, public facilities, or welfare projects during the election campaign period is considered a violation of the code of conduct.

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federal and provincial ministers were free to participate in electioneering in AJK but could not use official protocol, government resources or the state machinery for electoral purposes.

The commission further stated that any vehicles, equipment, relief goods, or other facilities dispatched by federal or provincial governments during elections would be confiscated, and legal action would follow. The spokesperson urged all ministers, candidates, and political parties to adhere strictly to the code of conduct to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections and maintain public trust in the electoral process. Additionally, AJK information officials called on media organizations to provide responsible, impartial coverage and urged social media users to avoid spreading unverified or misleading content.

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the announcement of any new development scheme, financial package, public facility or welfare project during the election campaign would amount to a violation of the code of conduct.