MUZAFFARABAD: Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Justice Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, has dismissed reports suggesting that the upcoming elections could be postponed, reaffirming that polling will take place on July 27 as scheduled.
Speaking about preparations for the elections, the Chief Election Commissioner said that all necessary arrangements had been completed and described rumors of a delay as baseless.
Election Date Will Not Change
Justice Ghulam Mustafa Mughal stated that reports claiming the elections would be postponed were nothing more than rumors.
He emphasized that if there had been any intention to change the election schedule, such a decision would have been made at least a month in advance, not just days before polling.
“With only seven days remaining before the vote, the elections will be held under all circumstances,” he said.
Preparations Complete
According to the Chief Election Commissioner, the Election Commission has finalized all administrative preparations for the polls.
He said polling materials have already been delivered to Returning Officers across Azad Kashmir, ensuring that election staff are fully prepared for voting day.
Government Employees’ Voting
Justice Mughal also confirmed that polling for government employees would proceed according to the announced schedule.
He noted that, except for Rawalakot and Pallandri, voting by government employees in other areas would continue as planned.
Comprehensive Security Arrangements
The Chief Election Commissioner said extensive security measures have been put in place to ensure the peaceful conduct of the elections.
According to him, the security plan includes the deployment and readiness of:
- Pakistan Army
- Pakistan Rangers
- Quick Response Force (QRF)
These forces will remain on alert throughout the election process to maintain law and order and respond promptly to any security concerns.
Focus on Peaceful Polling
Election authorities have reiterated their commitment to conducting the electoral process in a transparent, orderly, and secure manner.
Officials have urged voters and political parties to rely only on official announcements and avoid spreading or acting upon unverified information regarding the election schedule.
The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections are scheduled to be held on July 27, with the Election Commission expressing confidence that all logistical and security arrangements are in place for the smooth conduct of polling.
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