GILGIT: The Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission has officially announced the end of election campaigning ahead of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections scheduled for June 7, 2026. The decision comes as part of legal requirements under the Elections Act 2017, which prohibits all election-related activities during the 48 hours preceding polling day.
According to an official statement issued by the commission, a complete ban on election campaigning came into effect from midnight on June 5. Political parties, candidates, election agents, and supporters have been directed to strictly comply with the election code of conduct to ensure peaceful, free, fair, and transparent elections across the region.
The commission stated that no public meetings, election rallies, corner meetings, processions, gatherings, or canvassing activities aimed at influencing voters would be allowed during the restricted period. The use of loudspeakers and other campaign tools has also been prohibited. Authorities warned that violations of election laws would result in legal action under the Elections Act 2017 and other relevant regulations.
Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan said all arrangements for the elections had been finalized. Speaking to state media, he assured voters that comprehensive security measures were in place across the region to guarantee peaceful polling on election day.
Khan emphasized that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the election code of conduct. He urged political parties and candidates to demonstrate responsibility and help maintain an orderly environment during the electoral process.
Meanwhile, Returning Officer for constituency GBA-12 Shigar, Faisal Hayat, said transport facilities had been arranged for voters and that sensitive polling locations had been identified for enhanced security monitoring. Around 120 security personnel have been deployed in key areas of the constituency to maintain law and order.
The Gilgit-Baltistan elections have attracted significant political attention, with major parties including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) conducting extensive campaigns across the region.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Aseefa Bhutto Zardari led campaign activities for their party, while Nawaz Sharif addressed public gatherings during his visit to Gilgit-Baltistan. PTI leaders, including Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, also remained active throughout the campaign and raised concerns regarding the electoral environment.
With campaigning now concluded, voters across Gilgit-Baltistan are preparing to cast their ballots in an election that will shape the region’s political future and legislative priorities for the coming years.
