Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, has urged citizens to come out and exercise their right to vote, saying that active participation in the democratic process is essential for addressing public issues.
Speaking to the media, he said that if people choose to stay at home instead of voting, their problems cannot later be resolved through rallies, protests, or demonstrations.
He emphasised that the proper use of the vote enables people to elect their representatives and helps strengthen the democratic system.
The Chief Election Commissioner said that the Election Commission has finalised all necessary arrangements to ensure transparent, free, and peaceful elections.
He added that security personnel from Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan have also been deployed to help maintain law and order during the elections.
Justice (R) Mughal said that the armed forces’ Quick Response Force (QRF) will remain on alert to ensure the safety of voters. He added that eight security personnel will be deployed at highly sensitive polling stations. In comparison, six personnel will be stationed at sensitive polling stations to ensure that voting takes place in a secure and peaceful environment.
The Chief Election Commissioner further said that voter turnout during the first phase of the elections was encouraging. According to official figures, voter turnout reached 49 per cent in Kotli, 48 per cent in Bhimber, and 33 per cent in Mirpur.
He expressed hope that citizens would continue to participate enthusiastically in the remaining phases of the elections and further strengthen democratic traditions.
Polling for the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections was held on July 27 in the Mirpur Division. The Pakistan Muslim League (N) secured nine seats, while the Pakistan Peoples Party won four seats.
The second phase of polling, covering the Muzaffarabad Division and refugee seats, will be held on August 2. The third and final phase, covering the Poonch Division, is scheduled for August 10.
Read more: Situation in Muzaffarabad remains normal as election preparations continue
