MUZAFFARABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Tuesday urged the state to prioritise national interest over political interests, while raising concerns over the conduct of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections and demanding an independent inquiry into alleged irregularities.
Addressing a workers’ convention in Muzaffarabad, Bilawal thanked PPP supporters in Mirpur for their backing and said the party had a responsibility to protect every vote cast in its favour.
Raises concerns over polling stations
Referring to the first phase of the AJK Legislative Assembly elections, Bilawal questioned the reported incidents at polling stations despite security arrangements.
According to unofficial and provisional results, the PML-N secured nine seats, while the PPP won four of the 13 constituencies contested in the Mirpur region.
Bilawal questioned how attacks could reportedly occur at around 30 polling stations, arguing that such incidents warranted a thorough investigation.
He also referred to senior PPP leader Chaudhry Yasin, questioning how the politician could lose in his own village despite the party’s expectations of strong public support.
Calls for free and fair elections
The PPP chairman reiterated his demand for free, fair and transparent elections, saying the democratic process should reflect the will of the people.
He alleged that the phased election process had created opportunities for manipulation and claimed the party would continue working to protect what it considers its electoral mandate.
Bilawal also called for the establishment of an independent inquiry commission to investigate the reported incidents and allegations surrounding the election process.
Polling Begins in First Phase of AJK Elections Across Mirpur Division
Says political issues require political solutions
Speaking about the broader political situation in Azad Kashmir, Bilawal said disputes should be resolved through dialogue and constitutional means rather than confrontation.
He expressed regret over the loss of lives during previous unrest, saying political problems should be addressed through peaceful engagement.
Bilawal added that while protesters should remain within constitutional limits, authorities should also work towards negotiated political solutions instead of allowing tensions to escalate.
Urges voters to safeguard democratic process
The PPP chairman encouraged voters to participate actively in the remaining phases of the elections, saying every vote should be protected regardless of political affiliation.
He urged party workers to intensify their campaign ahead of the next round of polling scheduled for August 2, pledging that the PPP would continue advocating for what it described as transparent and credible elections.
Bilawal concluded by reaffirming that the PPP remains committed to pursuing its political objectives through peaceful and constitutional means while continuing to raise concerns over the electoral process.
