Bilawal Rejects Rigging, Rallies PPP Workers in Muzaffarabad

Muzaffarabad: (Our Correspondent) – Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari addressed party workers in Muzaffarabad on Tuesday, expressing confidence in his party’s electoral prospects and reiterating allegations of rigging in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections.

Bilawal said a lunch hosted by PPP candidate Mubashir Munir Awan had turned into a large public gathering, which he described as evidence of strong public support for the party. He congratulated the candidate on what he predicted would be a successful outcome in the August 2 polls and said the PPP’s longstanding political history and commitment to the Kashmir cause remained before the people.

The PPP chairman alleged that his political opponents had repeatedly benefited from electoral manipulation, while maintaining that the PPP had consistently struggled against what it described as unfair election practices. He claimed the people of Kashmir would resist any attempt to influence or undermine their vote.

Referring to previous elections in AJK, Bilawal alleged irregularities in several constituencies, particularly in Mirpur and Kotli, and called for a transparent investigation by the Election Commission. He demanded re-polling in polling stations where the PPP claims irregularities occurred, saying the party would accept electoral defeat but not what it considers a stolen mandate.

Bilawal also referred to the death of a PPP worker during the election campaign, saying the incident should be investigated and justice ensured.

Addressing the broader political situation in AJK, the PPP chairman proposed the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address ongoing tensions. He said the commission should include all stakeholders and work toward restoring peace, while urging both protesters and state authorities to suspend confrontational actions during the process.

He further called for measures to end internet restrictions and improve governance in the region. Bilawal said the PPP’s agenda focuses on expanding the rights of the people of Kashmir through greater participation in decision-making, stronger ownership of local resources and increased employment opportunities.

He urged party supporters to participate in the August 2 elections rather than boycott the vote, arguing that democratic participation remains the most effective way to protect political rights. Bilawal appealed to voters to support PPP candidates and grant the party a clear mandate.