AJK Elections: Govt, opposition agree on Chief Election commissioner panel

Islamabad (Rizwan Abbasi): A significant breakthrough has emerged ahead of the upcoming general elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), as the government and opposition have reached a consensus on a three-member panel for the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner.

According to sources, Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir Faisal Mumtaz Rathore and Leader of the Opposition Shah Ghulam Qadir held an important meeting during which they agreed on the proposed panel. The finalized names will now be forwarded to the Chairman of the Kashmir Council, Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Shehbaz Sharif, who will select one name from the panel.

The three-member panel includes Asif Shah, retired Justice Mustafa Mughal, and retired Justice Khawaja Naseem. Sources indicate that Justice Mustafa Mughal is being viewed as the most favored candidate, with strong prospects of final selection.

During the meeting, both leaders emphasized the need for free, fair, and transparent elections. Government sources stated that the consensus on the panel will help ensure transparency in the electoral process and will be remembered as a positive and historic step in the political history of the state.
This development is being seen as a symbol of political stability and mutual trust in AJK, as delays in the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner could have impacted the election schedule. With this agreement, the electoral process is expected to commence on time and without uncertainty.

Political circles and the general public have welcomed the move, expressing hope that it will further strengthen democratic values in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

A ray of hope for the people of AJK — the promise of transparent elections appears closer to becoming a reality.