MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission (AJKEC) on Friday postponed polling in Rawalakot and Sudhnoti districts for the third phase of the 2026 general elections due to worsening law and order conditions and security threats, while voting will continue as planned in Bagh and Haveli districts on Aug. 10.
The decision, announced just two days before polling, has become a major setback for the final stage of the election process and is likely to delay the completion of general elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) is poised to form the government in the AJK after Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah claimed the party had secured a simple majority.
The Election Commission announced the decision after a high level meeting led by Chief Election Commissioner Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal. The meeting reviewed security reports from the AJK Home Department, law enforcement agencies, district administrations and concerns raised by political parties, candidates and other stakeholders.
According to the commission, the Home Secretary’s report highlighted serious security challenges in Rawalakot and Sudhnoti, warning that the situation could affect the ability to conduct free, fair and peaceful elections.
The report also mentioned increasing political tensions and security risks that could create problems for voters, polling staff and election officials.
Chief Election Commissioner Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said the commission’s responsibility was to ensure elections remained transparent, peaceful and free from pressure. He said every voter must be able to cast a ballot without fear or influence.
The commission rejected claims that the decision was politically motivated, saying the postponement was based on security assessments, official reports and requests from political parties and candidates.
