Azad Jammu and Kashmir Chief Election Commissioner Ghulam Mustafa Mughal announced that the AJK elections will begin on July 27 in three phases. The elections will be conducted under the supervision of the armed forces to ensure security.
Speaking at a press conference in Muzaffarabad, Mughal said polling in Mirpur Division will take place on July 27. Meanwhile, Muzaffarabad Division and the 12 refugee constituencies will vote on August 2, while Poonch Division will go to the polls on August 10.
Read more: AJK employees complete early voting for general elections
The revised schedule comes as election campaigns enter their final week and authorities complete security and logistical preparations. Officials say the phased approach aims to facilitate smooth polling across the region.
Meanwhile, advance voting for government employees on election duty concluded peacefully in eight districts on Monday. Election authorities reported voter turnout exceeding 80 percent in most districts where polling was held.
However, advance polling in Rawalakot and Sudhnoti was postponed because of security concerns. Authorities nevertheless described the overall process as orderly and reiterated their commitment to holding free, fair, and transparent elections.
Read more: AJK elections to be held on time, says CEC
Political activity has also intensified ahead of polling, with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan Peoples Party increasing campaign efforts. Senior national leaders have held rallies to mobilise support for the 45-member AJK Legislative Assembly.
The election takes place against the backdrop of recent unrest linked to the Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee protests. Authorities and political stakeholders are expected to closely monitor the three-phase voting process as the region prepares to elect a new assembly.