MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission has received a record number of nomination papers for the 2026 general elections, indicating increased political participation compared with the previous polls.
Chief Election Commissioner Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said election preparations were progressing as planned and announced that two polling booths would be established at polling stations with more than 500 registered voters to facilitate the voting process.
Election Commission Secretary Raja Shakeel Khan said nomination papers were received from all constituencies, including reserved refugee seats and the Rawalakot division, until June 23.
According to the Election Commission, a total of 518 nomination papers have been submitted across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, covering the Mirpur, Poonch and Rawalakot divisions.
Officials said 114 nomination papers were filed for reserved refugee seats, while 130 nominations were received from the seven constituencies of the Poonch division.
The Election Commission said the higher number of candidates contesting the elections reflects increased public and political participation in the democratic process ahead of the 2026 polls.