The local government (LG) elections in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) have been postponed until September 27 in observance of Muharram and Chehlum events. Originally scheduled for August 2, the polls were rescheduled following requests from religious organizations.
New Date Announced
On Monday, G-B Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Raja Shahbaz Khan held a press conference to announce the new polling date. He stated that several religious bodies had approached the election commission, urging that the LG elections be conducted after Muharram and the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA). Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, will be observed on Friday, June 26, while Chehlum will be observed in the first week of August.
Extended Scrutiny Period
“Today (Monday) was the last day for filing nomination papers; however, in view of Muharram, the scrutiny date for nomination papers has been extended to August 10, 2026,” Khan announced. He confirmed that polling for the LG elections would take place on September 27, 2026, covering a total of 1,343 wards.
Party-Based Elections
“The LG elections are a long-standing demand of the people as they will help resolve public issues at the local level,” the CEC remarked. He added that the polls would be held on a party basis, with no independent candidates allowed. The minimum age for candidates is 25 years.
Commitment to Transparency
Khan emphasized that the G-B Election Commission will continue to fulfill its constitutional and legal responsibilities to ensure transparent, free, and fair elections. During the press conference, he also announced decisions on 14 election petitions filed after the recent legislative assembly elections. Decisions on two constituencies—GBA-13 Astore-I and GBA-16 Diamer-II—were deferred until June 17.
