GILGIT – The Election Commission has officially announced that GB elections will be held on June 7. The decision ends months of uncertainty in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Officials confirmed that the schedule was issued on Saturday. The announcement comes after earlier delays due to severe winter conditions in the region.
The GB elections were originally planned for January 24, 2026. However, they were postponed because of heavy snowfall and harsh weather. Many areas became inaccessible during that time.
According to the Election Commission Secretariat, the polls will be conducted under the Election Act 2017 and the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018. Preparations for the elections have now been completed.
Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan said that all arrangements are in place. He confirmed that the GB elections process is moving forward as scheduled.
Local government elections will be announced separately. Officials said they will be held after the general elections in the region.
Earlier plans had suggested local polls in February 2026. However, those dates were also delayed due to logistical challenges.
Political parties had raised concerns over holding elections during peak winter. They said snowfall and blocked roads would affect voter turnout and election fairness.
The Election Commission agreed that weather conditions made earlier scheduling difficult. As a result, the GB elections were shifted to early June for better accessibility.
However, concerns were also raised about further delays. Some political leaders warned that postponing beyond June could clash with religious observances like Muharram.
They argued that holding elections during such periods would not be practical. This added pressure on authorities to finalize a suitable date.
Officials say the current date aims to balance weather conditions and political considerations. The GB elections are now expected to proceed with improved access across the region.
Authorities have urged voters and parties to prepare for the electoral process. Security and logistical arrangements are also being finalized.
In other news read more about Nawaz Vows Merit In Ticket Distribution For AJK, GB Polls
The announcement has brought clarity to a long-delayed political process. All eyes are now on the upcoming GB elections as campaigning is expected to begin soon.
