Barrister Aqeel Malik emphasizes ethical and responsible political conduct ahead of GB polls

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Jun, 2026) Minister of State for Law Barrister Aqeel Malik on Saturday called upon political stakeholders to preserve the dignity of politics, use civilized language and focus on delivering results instead of making lofty promises, referring to the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan elections as a key test of democratic conduct and political responsibility.

While speaking to a local media outlet, Minister Malik said, “the public is closely observing governance and development performance in Punjab, where the Chief Minister has carried out extensive development work.

I am confident that voters in Gilgit-Baltistan will exercise their democratic right in the June 7 elections on the basis of performance,” he added.

He expressed confidence that voter turnout would be high in favor of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in Gilgit-Baltistan, adding that public support would reflect the party’s performance and governance record.

Aqeel Malik said, “public expectations are now centered on visible results and improved service

delivery.”

Aqeel Malik emphasized, “all political stakeholders must focus on addressing public issues through tangible results rather than slogans, as democratic competition should be grounded in accountability, service delivery and performance.

<?php /*?> <?php */?>

”

Responding to a question, Aqeel Malik said the 18th Constitutional Amendment has not fully achieved its intended goal of devolving powers to the grassroots level, resulting in limited benefits for the public.

He said gaps in implementation are affecting service delivery, adding that citizens are not receiving expected relief at the local level.

Referring to the NFC Award, he said provinces are receiving funds, but there is a need to review how effectively these resources are being utilized.

He emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability to ensure that public funds translate into visible development outcomes.

Responding to another query on governance reforms in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), Minister

Aqeel Malik said that any reform process requires consultation and consensus with allied parties, adding that the matter is currently under consideration.

He said the Smart City vision is based on developing Islamabad as a “nature capital” through eco-tourism and environmental protection, promoting culture, heritage and creative industries and ensuring an open, inclusive capital that encourages public participation and international engagement.