ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday congratulated PML-N leaders over the party’s gains in the opening phase of Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s (AJK) elections, where opposition parties alleged massive electoral irregularities.
In a statement issued after the conclusion of the first phase of polling, the prime minister congratulated PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, the party leadership and its election team, crediting their campaign strategy for the party’s strong showing in AJK.
He described the electoral exercise as a continuation of the democratic process in the region and called on voters to participate in the upcoming phases with the same enthusiasm.
The prime minister’s remarks came amid claims by rival political parties that the elections were marred by alleged rigging and administrative interference – accusations that could fuel further political tensions as the remaining phases of polling approach.
The first phase of the AJK Legislative elections concluded on Monday, with several political parties competing for seats across the region.
Polling for the remaining constituencies will be held according to the schedule announced by election authorities.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026