Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced that it will not take part in the upcoming elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The decision comes as the party cites the worsening political and humanitarian situation in the region.
In an official statement, PTI said it stands with the people of Kashmir but cannot participate in the electoral process under the current conditions. The party also suspended all recommendations made by its parliamentary board regarding election tickets.
According to PTI, the region is facing a serious crisis. Thousands of people in Rawalakot and other parts of AJK have been holding protests and sit-ins over their demands. The party said the use of force against protesters has already caused casualties.
The statement added that the supply of food items from Punjab to Azad Kashmir has also been disrupted. This has created major problems for local residents and increased public hardship.
The party said the immediate priority should be solving the problems of the people instead of focusing on elections. PTI believes that public relief and political stability must come first.
The party also raised concerns about the democratic environment in AJK. It said actions against political workers, arrests, and restrictions on media have created serious doubts about fair elections. It warned that such conditions affect the constitutional and political identity of the region.
PTI said it will not engage in politics for power while ignoring the voice of the Kashmiri people. Instead, the party said it will continue supporting democratic rights and public demands.
The boycott will remain in place until the political situation improves. PTI said it wants all issues to be resolved through dialogue, especially with the Joint Awami Action Committee. It also called for a review of the election schedule.
The party confirmed that all ticket distribution decisions have been put on hold until further notice. Future decisions about the elections will be made after a fresh review.
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PTI stated that this move is not for political gain or loss. The party said the decision reflects its commitment to democratic values and solidarity with the people of Kashmir.
