Polling for the GB Elections is underway across all 24 constituencies of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, with authorities implementing extensive security arrangements to ensure a peaceful voting process. The election is being closely watched as political parties and independent candidates compete for control of the region’s next government.
Voting started at 8:00 AM and will continue until 5:00 PM. Nearly one million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots during the day. The election is considered one of the most significant political events in Gilgit-Baltistan in recent years.
The 33-member Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly consists of 24 general seats, six reserved seats for women, and three seats reserved for technocrats. To form the next government, a party or coalition must secure at least 17 seats, making the contest highly competitive.
The GB Elections feature participation from several major political parties. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has fielded 23 candidates, while the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is contesting with 22 candidates. Other parties in the race include the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, Pakistan Muslim League, JUI-F, Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen, Jamaat-e-Islami, and MQM.
Independent candidates are expected to play a crucial role in the final outcome. A total of 266 independents are contesting the election, alongside seven women candidates. Political observers believe these independent contenders could influence government formation after the results are announced.
According to election authorities, 958,780 registered voters are eligible to vote. This includes 503,772 male voters and 454,708 female voters. Election officials are expecting strong voter participation across the region.
Several districts are considered politically important in the current election. Diamer and Skardu each have four constituencies, making them key battlegrounds. Gilgit, Ghizer, and Ghanche have three seats each, while Nagar and Astore hold two constituencies. Hunza, Shigar, and Kharmang each have one seat but remain important in the overall electoral picture.
Security measures have been significantly strengthened for the GB Elections. Authorities have established 1,368 polling stations throughout the region. Among them, 480 have been declared highly sensitive, while 350 are categorized as sensitive. Around 15,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order.
Section 144 remains in force in Diamer district to prevent any security-related incidents. Election officials have stated that all necessary arrangements have been completed to ensure transparent and peaceful polling.
Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan has encouraged citizens to participate actively in the democratic process. He emphasized the importance of peaceful voting and urged voters to cooperate with polling staff and security personnel.
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With political stakes high and voter turnout expected to be strong, today’s polling is likely to play a decisive role in shaping the future political landscape of Gilgit-Baltistan.
