The election campaign for the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) general elections has entered a decisive phase, with senior leaders from Pakistan’s major political parties arriving in the region to mobilize voters ahead of polling day on June 7.
Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari both arrived in Skardu on Monday to lead campaign activities as political competition intensifies across the strategically important mountainous region.
PTI Focuses on Democracy and Governance
Speaking after his arrival, Barrister Gohar described the election as a critical moment for the future of democracy in Gilgit-Baltistan.
According to the PTI chairman, the party’s campaign is centered on:
- Economic development
- Good governance
- Social justice
- Public welfare
- Democratic representation
Gohar said PTI workers would continue conveying the message of party founder Imran Khan throughout Gilgit-Baltistan despite what the party describes as political obstacles.
PTI Alleges Unequal Playing Field
The PTI leadership reiterated concerns about:
- Campaign restrictions
- Administrative hurdles
- Loss of the party’s election symbol
- Alleged limitations on political activities
Barrister Gohar claimed rival parties were operating freely while PTI continued facing challenges during the election process.
The party has repeatedly raised concerns about:
- Pre-poll rigging allegations
- Administrative interference
- Restrictions on campaign activities
Bilawal Launches PPP Campaign Push
Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari began his election tour with plans to address public gatherings across multiple districts.
His campaign schedule includes:
- Shigar
- Skardu
- Chilas
- Ghizer
- Gilgit
Bilawal was welcomed by senior PPP leaders including:
- Nayyar Bukhari
- Mehdi Shah
- Saleem Haider Khan
PPP leaders say the party is seeking public support based on its development agenda for Gilgit-Baltistan.
PML-N Also Intensifies Campaign
The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz has also deployed senior leadership to Gilgit-Baltistan.
Among leaders actively campaigning are:
- Khawaja Saad Rafique
- Khurram Dastgir Khan
- Abid Sher Ali
Federal ministers:
- Attaullah Tarar
- Amir Muqam
have also been participating in campaign activities throughout the region.
Security Arrangements Finalized
With political activity increasing, authorities have announced extensive security measures.
According to Punjab Police:
- More than 5,000 police personnel will be deployed
- Sensitive polling stations will receive additional security
- Law enforcement agencies will coordinate election-day operations
The deployment reflects the importance of maintaining a peaceful electoral environment across the geographically challenging region.
Elections Delayed Due to Harsh Weather
The Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission announced that voting will take place on June 7, 2026.
The elections were originally scheduled for January 24 but were postponed because of:
- Severe winter conditions
- Snowfall
- Transportation disruptions
- Logistical challenges
The delay extended the tenure of the caretaker administration while preparations continued.
Why Gilgit-Baltistan Matters
Gilgit-Baltistan occupies a strategically significant position because of its:
- Proximity to China
- Location along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
- Tourism potential
- Hydropower resources
- Geopolitical importance
The region has increasingly become a focal point of national politics as major parties seek to strengthen their influence there.
A High-Stakes Political Contest
The final days of campaigning are expected to witness intense competition among:
- PTI
- PPP
- PML-N
While development, governance and infrastructure remain major election issues, questions regarding electoral fairness and political freedom have also become central themes of the campaign.
Political observers note that voter turnout, security arrangements, and perceptions of transparency will play a significant role in determining the credibility and outcome of the elections.
With senior national leaders now actively campaigning across the region, the June 7 vote is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched elections in Gilgit-Baltistan’s recent political history.
