GILGIT – Elections in Gilgit-Baltistan are all over the headlines, and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) continues to raise concerns over threats to free and fair polls. Reports of restrictions on political activities and allegations of harassment sparked debate among stakeholders.
Amid the reservations, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi penned a formal letter to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Appellate Court of Gilgit-Baltistan, urging immediate attention to ensure a transparent and level electoral playing field.
A major political controversy erupted ahead of upcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi formally appealing to Chief Justice of the Supreme Appellate Court of Gilgit-Baltistan for immediate judicial intervention over what he describes as a deeply alarming electoral situation.
CM expressed serious concern over reports emerging from Gilgit-Baltistan, claiming that the electoral environment is becoming increasingly troubling. According to the letter, one political party is allegedly facing significant hurdles in carrying out election-related activities, organizing public rallies, conducting campaign events, and ensuring the free movement of its leadership and workers.
He further highlighted reports of political workers allegedly being harassed, unlawfully detained, and prevented from participating in legitimate political activities. He warned that if these reported actions continue unchecked, they could cast a shadow over the credibility, transparency, and integrity of the entire electoral process.
CM Afridi said the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees every citizen and political party the fundamental right to participate in elections that are free, fair, transparent, and impartial. He asserted that any deviation from these constitutional principles would not only amount to a violation of the Constitution but would also undermine the very foundations of democratic governance.
Calling for urgent judicial attention, he urged the Supreme Appellate Court of Gilgit-Baltistan to take immediate notice of the reported situation and ensure that the electoral process remains lawful, transparent, and free from undue interference.
A copy of the letter has also been sent to Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi amid concerns being raised at the highest judicial level.
The allegations contained in the letter are likely to intensify political debate as Gilgit-Baltistan moves closer to elections, with questions being raised about whether all political stakeholders will be able to participate on an equal footing in the democratic process.
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