AJK Opposition Raises Alarm Over Delayed Appointment of CEC

MUZAFFARABAD: Shah Ghulam Qadir, Leader of the Opposition in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, who is also President of local PML-N, has written to the prime minister of Azad Kashmir, urging immediate consultation on the appointment of a new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).

In his letter, Qadir expressed serious concerns regarding the electoral process, highlighting that over 450 polling stations still lack permanent election staff. This delay is hampering the timely preparation of voter lists and the essential training of election personnel.

He warned that without swift recruitment and training of staff, the entire election management process could be severely compromised.

Qadir also noted that the absence of a duly appointed Chief Election Commissioner is not only causing significant delays in the election preparations but is also raising questions about the transparency and impartiality of the upcoming 2026 general elections. He described the ongoing delays in key electoral preparations as a “red flag” for the democratic process in the region.

The Opposition Leader emphasized that these delays pose a serious risk to the credibility of the electoral process, with the integrity of future elections now in jeopardy. He called on the government to take urgent action to address these issues and ensure a free, fair, and timely election process.

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