RAWALPINDI: Amid strikes, long marches, protests, shelling and an uncertain political situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), not a single candidate submitted nomination papers for the three refugee seats of the AJK Legislative Assembly on Tuesday. The final electoral rolls for these three refugee constituencies covering Rawalpindi, Islamabad and the Rawalpindi Division have been issued.
First Day of Nomination Sees No Activity
Tuesday marked the first day for submission of nomination papers for all 45 constituencies across AJK, including LA-43 Valley-IV, LA-44 Valley-V and Jammu-VI. However, due to the ongoing political unrest, no candidate filed nomination papers or even obtained nomination forms. Returning officers' offices remained deserted, with no candidates, political workers or party leaders visiting.
Possible Revision of Election Schedule
Given the prevailing political circumstances, there is a strong possibility that the election schedule may be revised. The lack of participation on the first day highlights the depth of the political crisis in the region.
Constituency Details
Valley-IV consists entirely of Rawalpindi city, while Valley-V covers the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Jammu-VI spans Rawalpindi city, the entire Rawalpindi Division, Islamabad and extends up to Gilgit-Baltistan.
- LA-43 Valley-IV: Total 3,346 voters (1,750 male, 1,596 female)
- LA-44 Valley-V: Total 3,754 voters (1,945 male, 1,809 female)
- Jammu-VI: Total 20,807 voters (11,222 male, 9,585 female) – the largest constituency
The absence of candidates on the first day underscores the severity of the political situation, with observers closely watching for any changes to the electoral timeline.
