Muzaffarabad: An All Parties Conference (APC) convened at the Prime Minister’s House in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to discuss the demands of the Awami Action Committee concluded without reaching a definitive decision on the contentious issue of refugee seats in the Legislative Assembly.
Representatives from several political parties, including the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), participated in the conference.
No Consensus on Refugee Seats
Following the meeting, AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq? Wait article says Faisal Mumtaz Rathore maybe PM? Let’s stick article. Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir Faisal Mumtaz Rathore told media that participants were unable to arrive at a clear and unanimous decision regarding refugee seats.
He stated that the matter would now be referred to the Legislative Assembly, where efforts would be made to develop a broader consensus among elected representatives.
According to Rathore, an assembly session will be convened to discuss the issue and seek an agreed constitutional and political solution.
Emphasis on Dialogue and Constitutional Process
The AJK prime minister stressed that all disputes and political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue rather than confrontation.
He said constitutional and democratic processes remain the legitimate mechanism for addressing political questions and that elected leadership has the responsibility to resolve such matters through parliamentary institutions.
Rathore emphasized that decisions on important constitutional issues should be taken through the Assembly and in accordance with democratic procedures.
Government Rejects Use of Force
Addressing concerns about possible unrest, the prime minister stated that the state would not resort to force under any circumstances.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to peaceful engagement and dialogue with stakeholders, saying that political differences should be settled through consultation and democratic means.
The statement appears aimed at reducing tensions amid ongoing debates over electoral and constitutional matters in the region.
Protest Postponement Request Rejected
Rathore revealed that the government had requested the Awami Action Committee to postpone its planned protest for one week in order to facilitate further discussions.
However, according to him, the committee declined the request and maintained its position.
The refusal indicates that differences between the government and the Awami Action Committee remain unresolved despite efforts to initiate dialogue.
Concern Over Regional Stability
The AJK prime minister also highlighted the broader implications of political instability in the region.
He argued that any deterioration in the situation within Azad Kashmir could be exploited by India for negative propaganda purposes.
“For us, the state comes first,” he said, underscoring the importance of maintaining unity and stability.
Joint Resolution Adopted by APC Participants
Despite failing to resolve the refugee seats issue, political parties participating in the APC unanimously approved a joint resolution.
The resolution noted that the Awami Action Committee had been formally invited to attend the conference and participate in consultations.
According to the text, despite being invited and awaited by participants, the committee did not join the consultative process.
Support for Democratic Continuity
The resolution described democratic continuity as the foundation of political stability in Azad Kashmir.
It reaffirmed the commitment of participating parties to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that constitutional governance remains effective and functional.
The document stated that efforts to weaken institutional processes or disrupt governance should not be permitted.
Call for Dialogue and Political Tolerance
The resolution urged political parties, civil society organizations, and public groups to promote:
- Political tolerance.
- Constructive dialogue.
- Peaceful democratic struggle.
- Respect for constitutional institutions.
Participants emphasized that disagreements should be addressed through democratic engagement rather than confrontation.
Remarks on National Security Institutions
The APC resolution also expressed appreciation for the role of national security institutions in safeguarding stability.
It further alleged that India is engaged in organized propaganda aimed at creating misunderstandings regarding state institutions and democratic structures in Azad Kashmir.
Participants stressed the need for vigilance against efforts that could undermine public confidence in democratic and constitutional institutions.
Elections to Be Held on Schedule
A key part of the resolution reaffirmed that elections to the Legislative Assembly would be conducted within the timeframe prescribed by the Constitution and relevant laws.
The participating parties emphasized the importance of ensuring:
- Free elections.
- Fair elections.
- Transparent elections.
- Peaceful elections.
They called on authorities to take all necessary administrative, legal, and security measures to facilitate the electoral process.
Warning Against Election Disruption
The resolution concluded by stating that any attempt to sabotage, obstruct, or delay the electoral process should be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.
Political leaders attending the APC stressed that protecting democratic continuity and ensuring timely elections remain essential for the stability of Azad Kashmir.
While the conference succeeded in producing a unanimous political resolution, the issue of refugee seats remains unresolved and is expected to be debated further in the Legislative Assembly in the coming weeks.
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