Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry on Monday said the first phase of polling in 13 constituencies of Mirpur Division for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections concluded.
Peaceful polling marks first phase of AJK elections in Mirpur Division: Tariq Fazal
ISLAMABAD, Jul 27 (APP): Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry on Monday said the first phase of polling in 13 constituencies of Mirpur Division for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections concluded.
In a video statement, the minister said that, except for an incident in Nakyal, voters in the remaining 12 constituencies exercised their right to vote peacefully.
He said the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) had conducted a positive and vigorous election campaign across Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr Tariq said the visits of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had given the people confidence that development based on the Punjab model would also be introduced in AJK.
He added that if the PML-N formed the government in the region, it would launch development projects modelled on those implemented in Punjab.
Criticising the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), the minister said the party had remained focused on negative politics, criticism, and allegations since the beginning of the election campaign.
He claimed the PPP had no development model from Sindh to present as an example for the people of AJK.
He said the PML-N had instead presented practical development initiatives implemented in Punjab and assured the people that similar projects would be carried out in AJK.
The minister urged political parties to promote peace, harmony, and development in Azad Jammu and Kashmir rather than spreading hatred.
He said those criticising the PML-N were themselves unable to offer anything meaningful to the people while objecting to the party’s public welfare initiatives.
Dr Tariq described the PPP’s statements and political approach as a reflection of its political failure and frustration, adding that the people of AJK were well aware of the party’s declining popularity.
He said only a strong and stable government could effectively address the challenges facing AJK.
Referring to the proposed Truth Commission, the minister said the PML-N was fully prepared to sit together and hold dialogue on its recommendations.
He added that the party was willing to engage with all those committed to the peace, development, and prosperity of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He also called for an end to politics based on ridicule and personal attacks, urging all stakeholders to work for the development of Azad Kashmir and to promote unity and goodwill among its people.
