Concerns over political restrictions and election fairness in Gilgit-Baltistan intensify as the June 7 polls approach.
KP Chief Minister Writes to Top GB Judicial Authority
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has urged the Chief Justice of the Gilgit-Baltistan Supreme Appellate Court, Sardar Muhammad Shamim Khan, to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in the region.
In a formal letter, the chief minister referred to what he described as “deeply disturbing” reports regarding the political environment ahead of the Gilgit-Baltistan elections scheduled for June 7. He stressed that the situation required immediate judicial attention to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Allegations of Political Restrictions
Without naming any specific party, the KP chief minister stated that credible information suggests a “parliamentary political party” is facing undue restrictions on its political activities. These alleged constraints include limitations on election campaigns, public gatherings, and the movement of party workers and leadership.
He further noted that reports of harassment, arbitrary detentions, and obstruction of lawful political participation could seriously undermine public trust in the electoral process if left unaddressed.
The letter emphasized that the Constitution guarantees every citizen and political party the fundamental right to participate in free and fair elections. Any deviation from these principles, he warned, would amount to a violation of democratic norms and constitutional protections.
Previous Incidents Add to Concerns
The development comes amid a series of recent political incidents in the region. Earlier, Junaid Akbar and other members of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf were reportedly detained and later expelled from Gilgit-Baltistan after holding political activities without the required permissions, according to local officials.
Separately, senior PTI leader Asad Qaiser also alleged that restrictions on his movement prevented him from reaching Islamabad Airport, causing him to miss a scheduled flight for campaign activities in Skardu.
These incidents have added to growing political tension in the region as election campaigning intensifies.
Call for Judicial Oversight
Chief Minister Afridi urged the court to take formal notice of the situation and direct relevant authorities to ensure that all political parties can conduct their campaigns without obstruction. He also called for strict action against unlawful harassment, arrests, or interference in political activities.
He expressed hope that the judiciary would use its constitutional authority to uphold the rule of law, protect democratic principles, and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
Election Context
Gilgit-Baltistan is set to hold elections for its Legislative Assembly on June 7. The polls are being closely watched amid heightened political activity and increasing scrutiny over electoral fairness, transparency, and equal political opportunity for all contesting parties.
