With just days remaining before the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, political activity has accelerated across the region. Senior leaders from major political parties have launched high-profile campaigns, while authorities have strengthened security arrangements ahead of the June 7 vote.
Election Campaign Reaches Peak in Gilgit-Baltistan
GILGIT: Major political parties have stepped up their election campaigns as Gilgit-Baltistan prepares to elect representatives for 24 Assembly seats on June 7.
According to Beyond Time News, senior leaders from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) arrived in the region to rally support for their candidates.
The arrival of top political figures has increased public interest in the upcoming elections. Consequently, campaign activities have intensified across Gilgit, Skardu, and surrounding districts.
Nawaz Sharif Unveils Development Vision
PML-N President Nawaz Sharif arrived in Gilgit on a brief but politically significant visit.
Party leaders welcomed him at Gilgit Airport before escorting him to a local hotel. During his visit, Nawaz met party candidates and office-bearers from across the region.
Moreover, he outlined the party’s development agenda and promised to present a comprehensive “Vision Gilgit-Baltistan” focused on infrastructure, energy, education, and economic growth.
Aseefa Bhutto Leads PPP Rally in Skardu
Meanwhile, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari reached Skardu to participate in the PPP’s election campaign.
Local leaders received her at the airport before taking her to the rally venue. Preparations continued throughout the day near Yadgar Chowk, where workers and supporters gathered in large numbers.
In addition, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was also expected to address the rally. As a result, enthusiasm among party supporters remained high.
Several roads near the venue remained closed to facilitate security and crowd management arrangements.
Security Tightened Ahead of Polling Day
Authorities have strengthened security measures as election day approaches.
According to reports, the Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission requested additional security personnel to ensure peaceful polling. Therefore, officials decided to deploy 5,000 Punjab Police officers across the region.
Security agencies aim to maintain law and order at polling stations and campaign venues during the final days of electioneering.
Nawaz Criticises Slow Pace of Development
While addressing party workers in Gilgit, Nawaz Sharif raised concerns about the pace of development in Gilgit-Baltistan after 2018.
He said deteriorating roads and unfinished projects reflected years of neglect. Furthermore, he questioned why successive governments failed to complete major initiatives launched during his tenure.
“I wanted Gilgit-Baltistan to witness significant development. Seeing damaged roads and incomplete projects is disappointing,” he said.
However, he emphasized that the PML-N seeks public support based on performance rather than criticism of political rivals.
Focus on Infrastructure and Connectivity
Nawaz highlighted several projects that his government initiated or completed, including hospitals, hydropower facilities, and infrastructure schemes.
Additionally, he called for the expansion of Gilgit’s airport to accommodate larger aircraft. He also announced plans to discuss the proposal with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
According to Nawaz, better air connectivity would boost tourism, trade, and investment throughout the region.
He also advocated increasing weekly flights to Gilgit and Skardu to improve accessibility for residents and visitors.
Addressing Energy Challenges
Another key issue raised during the speech was the electricity crisis.
Nawaz expressed concern over prolonged load-shedding in several areas. He argued that a region rich in water resources and solar potential should not face severe power shortages.
Therefore, he proposed expanding solar energy projects to help meet growing electricity demand.
He added that access to basic services should remain a priority regardless of political considerations.
Read more:PM Shehbaz Meets Nawaz Sharif, Reviews Political Situation
Plans for Youth, Housing and Education
The former prime minister also announced several proposals aimed at improving living standards in Gilgit-Baltistan.
These proposals included housing loans, interest-free financing for young entrepreneurs, scholarships, and laptop programs for talented students.
Furthermore, he pledged to support the establishment of a women’s university in the region. He said greater educational opportunities would help unlock the potential of local youth.
CPEC and Economic Opportunities
Nawaz described Gilgit-Baltistan as a vital gateway for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
He said stronger trade links with China could create jobs, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth across the region.
Moreover, he called for the construction of a motorway connecting Mansehra and Gilgit. According to him, improved transport infrastructure would enhance regional connectivity and support long-term development.
Elections Set to Shape Region’s Future
As campaigning enters its final phase, political parties continue to compete for voter support across Gilgit-Baltistan.
With major leaders presenting competing visions for development, infrastructure, and economic growth, the June 7 elections are expected to play an important role in shaping the region’s future direction.
FAQs
When will the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections take place?
The elections for 24 Assembly seats are scheduled for June 7, 2026.
Why did Nawaz Sharif visit Gilgit?
Nawaz Sharif visited Gilgit to campaign for PML-N candidates and present the party’s development agenda for the region.
What issues did Nawaz Sharif highlight during his speech?
He focused on infrastructure, electricity shortages, airport expansion, education, housing, and economic development.
Why is Aseefa Bhutto Zardari in Skardu?
She traveled to Skardu to participate in the PPP’s election campaign and address a public rally.
How many police personnel will assist with election security?
Authorities plan to deploy 5,000 Punjab Police personnel to support election security arrangements.
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