AJK Elections 2026: First Phase Polling Begins in Mirpur Division

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The Pakistan Times — Islamabad, July 27, 2026

First Phase of AJK Elections Begins in Mirpur Division as Over 1.4 Million Voters Cast Ballots

Polling got under way on Monday for the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections, with voters across Mirpur Division's 13 constituencies casting ballots in what officials describe as one of the most heavily secured electoral exercises in the region's recent history. According to the Election Commission of AJK, voting began at 8am and will continue without interruption until 5pm.

Voter Breakdown and Constituencies

Election authorities say a total of 1,401,439 registered voters are eligible to cast ballots across Mirpur Division, comprising 725,118 male voters and 675,628 female voters. The seats are split across three districts: six constituencies in Kotli district, drawing around 647,000 voters; three constituencies in Bhimber district, with roughly 342,000 voters; and four constituencies in Mirpur district, where about 411,000 voters are registered.

The Election Commission of AJK has set up 2,454 polling stations and 3,701 polling booths across the division, with 1,965 of those stations classified as sensitive or highly sensitive. A total of 296 candidates are contesting the seats, including nominees from the Pakistan Peoples Party, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz AJK, and the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, alongside independents.

Security Arrangements

More than 19,000 security personnel have been deployed across Mirpur Division to maintain order during polling, including 17,000 police personnel, while 2,100 army troops remain on standby as a reserve force. AJK Chief Election Commissioner Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal has warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the voting process.

The Election Commission confirmed it suspended and detained two presiding officers in Kotli district for allegedly violating the election code of conduct after they reportedly went to a private residence instead of reporting to their assigned polling stations. Returning officers took custody of the polling material in their possession, and new presiding officers were dispatched to the affected stations, according to an Election Commission spokesperson.

Official Reactions

AJK Chief Secretary Khushhal Khan said residents of Azad Kashmir had rejected disruptive elements and reaffirmed their confidence in the democratic process.

Remaining Phases

The Election Commission of AJK had earlier revised the original election schedule into three phases following consultations with major political parties, aiming to ensure a peaceful and transparent process. Under that revised plan, polling in Mirpur Division proceeded on its originally scheduled date. According to the Election Commission, voting in Muzaffarabad Division and 12 refugee constituencies will follow on August 2, with Poonch (Rawalakot) Division going to the polls on August 10.

What Comes Next

Official results for Mirpur Division will be announced after polling and counting conclude. Attention will then shift to the second phase of voting on August 2 in Muzaffarabad Division and the refugee constituencies. The Pakistan Times will continue to provide verified updates as the election process moves forward.

Read More:»»» Netanyahu New York Visit: Attends UN Despite ICC Arrest Warrant, Mamdani Reacts

Source: The Express Tribune, Geo News, Election Commission of AJK

© The Pakistan Times. All rights reserved.

 

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