The polling process for government employees assigned election duties in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has been completed successfully, with 24,040 employees casting their votes ahead of the upcoming general elections.
Read More: AJK election staff to cast vote on July 20
The voting process for government officials was held on July 20 across different districts of AJK from 8am to 5pm. Election authorities said the polling remained peaceful, while security arrangements and administrative measures were described as effective.
According to official figures, a total of 24,040 votes were cast across eight districts of three divisions of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
In the Rawalakot Division, 4,278 government employees used their right to vote for four legislative assembly constituencies spread across two districts. Meanwhile, in the Mirpur Division, 12,041 employees cast their ballots for 13 legislative assembly seats across three districts.
The Muzaffarabad Division recorded 7,721 votes from government employees for nine legislative assembly seats in three districts.
After completion of the voting process, all sealed ballot boxes and other election material were handed over to the relevant returning officers according to the prescribed procedures.
The votes cast by government employees will be counted along with other ballots on the official polling day, and results will be announced according to the election schedule.
During the polling process, political parties also established election camps in different constituencies to assist voters and continue their campaign activities.
Election officials said the successful completion of the first phase reflected effective planning and coordination among relevant institutions. They added that arrangements were made to ensure transparency, security and smooth conduct of the electoral process.
Political analysts described the early voting stage as an important step towards holding peaceful and organised elections in AJK. They said the participation of thousands of government employees demonstrated confidence in the electoral system and highlighted the importance of voter involvement.
Read More: AJK elections to be held on time, says CEC
The upcoming AJK general elections are expected to witness strong competition among major political parties, with campaigns already underway across the region. Authorities have said further election-related arrangements will continue until polling day to ensure a fair and transparent process.