MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission on Wednesday sought a response from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)-led AJK government over the violation of the election code of conduct.
The Election Commission took action on the petition filed by the Opposition Leader and PML-N AJK President Shah Ghulam Qadir against the government for the issuance of the education package and announcement of development projects before the general elections 2026.
The petitioner had contended that such announcements after the 120-day election plan are tantamount to premature election rigging and their purpose is to influence the electoral process.
The petition stated that announcements of transfers, appointments, and development packages are being made a few days before the announcement of the election schedule, which is a violation of the Election Act 2020 and the model code of conduct and tantamount to pre-poll ragging.
In his petition, Shah Ghulam Qadir requested the Chief Election Commissioner to immediately stop the government from announcing development projects, implementing new schemes, and education packages to ensure the holding of transparent, impartial, and fair elections.
The Election Commission has directed the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister to obtain the government’s position on the allegations and submit a report within three days.
According to the AJK Election Commission spokesperson, transparent and impartial elections will be ensured at all costs, and strict action will be taken against the violators.
