ISLAMABAD: The embattled Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Thursday announced it will boycott the forthcoming elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), citing what it described as a “severe crisis”, restrictions on political activity, and ongoing unrest in the region.
In a statement, the party said it stood in “unwavering solidarity” with the people of AJK but argued that participating in the forthcoming elections in the region under the prevailing circumstances would amount to legitimising a “compromised” electoral process.
PTI alleged that widespread protests were underway in parts of AJK, including Rawalakot, over what demonstrators describe as legitimate demands.
PTI insisted that state force had been used against protesters, resulting in casualties, and that disruptions in the supply of essential goods from Punjab had worsened conditions in the region.
The party further said political repression, arrests of activists, and restrictions on media coverage had undermined the credibility of the electoral environment, adding that elections could not be considered free or fair under such conditions.
AJK has in recent weeks witnessed protests linked to economic grievances and political demands raised by local groups, including the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which authorities have declared proscribed.
PTI said it would suspend all decisions of its AJK parliamentary board regarding ticket distribution and would take no further part in the electoral process until conditions normalise and what it called a “truly free and equal” political environment is restored.
The party added that it would remain outside the electoral contest until disputes involving the JAAC are resolved through dialogue.
The announcement comes amid heightened political tension ahead of the elections, with opposition parties accusing authorities of tightening control, while officials maintain that governance measures are aimed at maintaining order.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026