AJK to hold general elections in three phases amid security concerns

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission has announced a revised schedule for the 2026 general elections, deciding to conduct polling in three phases due to the prevailing law and order situation in parts of the region

MIRPUR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jul, 2026) The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission has announced a revised schedule for the 2026 general elections, deciding to conduct polling in three phases due to the prevailing law and order situation in parts of the region.

According to an announcement issued by the Chief Election Commissioner, polling will begin on July 27 and conclude on August 10. The commission opted for a phased election process instead of postponing the polls, saying the revised schedule would help meet administrative and security requirements.

Under the revised programme, the first phase of polling will be held on July 27 in Mirpur Division, covering the districts of Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber. The second phase will take place on August 2 in Muzaffarabad Division, including Muzaffarabad, Jhelum Valley and Neelum districts. Polling for Constituencies reserved for Jammu and Kashmir refugees residing in different parts of Pakistan will also be held on the same day.

The third and final phase will be conducted on August 10 in Poonch Division, comprising the districts of Poonch, Bagh, Sudhnoti and Haveli.

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The Election Commission said the decision was taken after reviewing the security situation, particularly in Poonch Division, where uncertainty over the conduct of polling had persisted for several weeks.

The commission said the revised schedule does not amount to a postponement of the elections, but a staggered polling plan to ensure smooth and secure voting. It also rejected demands from several political parties, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), for a complete delay in the electoral process.

Election authorities said all necessary arrangements were being finalized to ensure the elections are held in a free, fair, transparent and peaceful manner. They added that the phased schedule would enable the administration and law enforcement agencies to implement separate security plans for each stage of polling.

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