PML-N Claims Majority in Disputed AJK Legislative Elections

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has claimed a simple majority to form the government in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), securing approximately 23 to 26 of the 45 total seats following the first two phases of elections. The party won 24 of the 34 seats decided by August 5, marking its return to power in the region after a decade. The final phase of voting is scheduled for August 10 in the Poonch Division.

The electoral process has been marred by severe political friction and violence. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), a federal coalition partner of the PML-N, has rejected the results, alleging "historic rigging," ballot stuffing, and the misuse of state machinery. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari described the process as "bullet elections" and warned that the "countdown has begun" for the federal government. In response, PML-N leaders dismissed these claims as "political mudslinging" and an inability to accept defeat.

Simultaneously, the elections occurred against a backdrop of civil unrest. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) boycotted the polls, while the government banned the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), labeling the grassroots movement as terrorists. The JAAC and other activists reported a brutal crackdown by security forces, alleging that dozens of protesters were killed in Rawalakot and Kotli. The UKPNP briefed United Nations officials in New York on these human rights violations, urging the international community to act against the use of lethal force.