Political tensions have increased following the Gilgit Baltistan elections, as major parties including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) expressed concerns about the transparency of the electoral process. Allegations regarding delayed results, issues with Form 45 issuance, and possible attempts to influence election outcomes have sparked controversy across the region.
According to unofficial results from 18 out of 24 constituencies, the PPP emerged as the leading party, securing nine seats. Independent candidates won six seats, while PML-N secured two seats and MWM won one seat. Vote counting in the remaining constituencies continued as election officials worked to finalize results.
The Election Commission of Gilgit Baltistan directed all returning officers to issue certified Form 45 documents and ensure compliance with election regulations. However, PPP leaders alleged that results in several constituencies were being withheld despite the party’s claimed victories. PPP Secretary General Nayar Bukhari described the situation as a threat to the public mandate and warned of possible protests if delays continued.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan also criticized the election process, claiming that party leaders faced restrictions during campaigning. He emphasized that all political parties should have equal opportunities to campaign and that election results should accurately reflect the will of the voters.
Meanwhile, JUI-F leaders questioned delays in announcing results and raised concerns about transparency. They argued that any effort to alter the public mandate would damage confidence in the democratic process.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari celebrated the party’s strong performance, stating that PPP was emerging as the largest political force in Gilgit Baltistan and would work toward forming the next government.
The elections saw participation from more than 403 candidates and nearly 963,000 registered voters. Authorities deployed over 17,500 security personnel to maintain peace and ensure a smooth voting process across the region.
