AJK gears up for mid-year general elections as preparations accelerate

General elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) are expected to be held in the middle of this year, as preparations have formally begun, according to official sources

MIRPUR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Mar, 2026) General elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) are expected to be held in the middle of this year, as preparations have formally begun, according to official sources. The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has proactively initiated the process of updating electoral rolls, particularly focusing on Pakistan-based Jammu and Kashmir refugees, therefore signaling the start of a crucial democratic exercise, the local correspondent of APP reported this from Mirpur on Wednesday. citing sources of election commission.

A spokesperson for the commission stated that registration officers have been duly appointed to carry out the process efficiently and systematically. Moreover, following the 2022 local government elections, updated data of individuals who have recently attained the eligible voting age of 18 has been provided.

These potential voters will be carefully verified through door-to-door visits, ensuring a transparent and comprehensive inclusion in the electoral rolls.

Officials further revealed that all eligible citizens will be promptly registered, however, strict verification protocols will be maintained to uphold credibility. The qualifying date for voter registration has been set as April 2026, marking a significant milestone in the electoral timeline. The move is being viewed as a vital step towards strengthening democratic participation across the region.

Meanwhile, Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, Chief Election Commissioner, has convened a consultative meeting scheduled for March 28 at Kashmir House, Islamabad. The session aims to seek input from political party leaders to devise a robust strategy for electoral roll revisions and the formulation of a code of conduct.

APP/ahr/378