MUZAFFARABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday accused authorities of prioritizing political interests over national interests during the ongoing Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections, calling for free and transparent polls and an independent inquiry into alleged election irregularities.
Addressing a PPP workers’ convention in Muzaffarabad, Bilawal alleged that attacks on polling stations and incidents of violence had undermined the electoral process. He questioned how attacks could have occurred at around 30 polling stations despite the presence of security arrangements.
“The state must decide whether national interest is more important or the interests of the PML-N,” Bilawal said, adding that Kashmir and Pakistan were bearing the consequences of political decisions.
The remarks came after the first phase of the AJK Legislative Assembly elections, in which the Pakistan Muslim League (N) secured victories in nine of the 13 constituencies contested, according to unofficial and provisional results, while the Pakistan Peoples Party won four seats.
Why Did Bilawal Question the Conduct of the AJK Elections?
Bilawal alleged that the phased election process had facilitated vote manipulation and claimed that attacks on polling stations were aimed at influencing the election outcome.
He questioned the defeat of senior PPP leader Chaudhry Yasin in his hometown constituency and said the election results did not reflect public support for the party.
The PPP chairman also criticized internet shutdowns during the election period, saying such measures created an impression inconsistent with democratic practices. He urged authorities to ensure that the remaining phases of the elections are conducted fairly and peacefully.
Bilawal reiterated that the PPP would protect what he described as the public mandate and would not allow votes to be “stolen.”
What Demands Did the PPP Chairman Make?
Calling for greater transparency, Bilawal urged the authorities to establish an independent inquiry commission to investigate allegations of violence and irregularities during the electoral process.
He said political disputes in Azad Kashmir should be resolved through constitutional and democratic means rather than confrontation. He also stressed the need for dialogue to address political tensions and safeguard the democratic process.
Bilawal appealed to voters to participate in the remaining phases of the elections regardless of political affiliation, saying every vote should be protected.
The PPP chairman also directed party workers to intensify their election campaign ahead of polling in Muzaffarabad on August 2, while maintaining that the party remained committed to peaceful and constitutional political participation despite what he described as attempts to influence the electoral process.