PML-N Nears Majority, But Is the Battle Really Won?
News Desk
Muzaffarabad: The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) appears to be on course to form the next government in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), but its electoral gains have unfolded against a backdrop of protests, violence and deep political uncertainty.
With results from the first two phases of the Legislative Assembly elections now largely in, the ruling party at the federal level has secured 23 of the 45 general seats contested so far, placing it within touching distance of a simple majority.
However, the final political picture will depend on the remaining 11 seats in Poonch Division and the postponed polling in two Muzaffarabad constituencies.
The 53-member Legislative Assembly requires a majority to form the government, and the latest results have strengthened PML-N’s position despite fierce competition from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).
Muzaffarabad Delivers a Split Verdict
The second phase of voting in Muzaffarabad Division produced a mixed outcome, with PML-N winning four of the seven declared seats while the PPP claimed the remaining three.
Polling in LA-27 Kotla and LA-28 Lachhrat, postponed due to earlier disruptions, is scheduled for August 4, with authorities declaring a public holiday in the affected areas to facilitate voting.
The first phase of the elections, held on July 27 in Mirpur Division, had already given the PML-N a commanding lead after it won nine of the 13 seats announced, compared with four for the PPP.
Unofficial results from refugee constituencies have further strengthened the party’s position, with PML-N candidates leading in 10 of the 12 seats.
Election Campaign Overshadowed by Unrest
While political parties celebrated victories and counted seats, much of the public focus remained on the deteriorating security situation across the region.
Polling day in Muzaffarabad was marred by clashes between protesters and security forces in several localities, including Lower Plate, Chehla Bandi and Bala Pir. Authorities responded with tear gas and firing after reports of stone-pelting during demonstrations.
Local journalists reported unusually low voter turnout in several urban polling stations, attributing it to widespread protests and shutdowns that had disrupted normal life for days. Businesses remained closed across parts of the capital, while campaign banners and posters were reportedly set on fire during demonstrations.
Reports also emerged of fatalities linked to the unrest, although officials have not confirmed the reported death toll.
A Region Gripped by Political Crisis
The elections have taken place amid one of the most prolonged periods of political instability in recent years.
For nearly two months, demonstrations led by the Joint Public Action Committee have continued across the region, building on a broader protest movement that has persisted for almost three years. Protest leaders claim dozens of people have died during clashes with authorities, allegations the government disputes.
After negotiations between the committee and the administration collapsed earlier this year, the government designated the organization under anti-terrorism laws, significantly escalating tensions.
Officials accuse armed elements linked to the banned group of attacking security personnel, saying several law enforcement officers have been killed and dozens injured during recent violence. Protest leaders, however, reject the allegations and maintain their movement remains focused on public rights and accountability.
Govt Formation Still Awaits Final Verdict
Although the PML-N has emerged as the clear frontrunner, the election process is not yet complete.
The remaining contests in Poonch Division and the postponed polling in Muzaffarabad will determine the final composition of the Legislative Assembly and whether the PML-N can secure an outright majority or will require political support from allies.
Until then, the contest remains as much about restoring political stability as it is about winning seats in the assembly.
