PML-N Leads in AJK Polls Amidst Violence, Rigging Claims

The initial phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections concluded amidst violence and rigging allegations, with unofficial results indicating a lead for the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in seven out of 13 constituencies in the Mirpur division. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) was reportedly ahead in five seats.

Polling in the Mirpur division on Monday was disrupted by scuffles and violence, leading to one death and two injuries in Nakyal. The PPP has accused PML-N candidates of rigging and ballot stuffing in Kotli. These electoral challenges have cast a shadow over the process.

Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, the Chief Election Commissioner, announced the official results late Monday. The unofficial tallies suggest the PML-N secured all three seats in Bhimber district, two of four in Mirpur district, and three of six in Kotli district. The Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLAP) commented that the electoral process did not instill public confidence, while the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) suggested that minimal voter turnout reflected widespread discontent.