Code of Conduct Issued for Candidates Ahead of AJK Elections

MUZAFFARABAD: (Staff Reporter) – The Election Commission has issued a comprehensive code of conduct for candidates contesting the upcoming general elections for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly, scheduled to be held on July 27, 2026.

According to the code, each candidate may spend up to Rs5 million on their election campaign and must submit a complete record of campaign expenditures after the announcement of election results. Any amount spent by another person on behalf of a candidate will also be considered part of the candidate’s official election expenses.

Candidates have been directed to strictly comply with the provisions of the Election Act and refrain from making speeches or engaging in conduct that insults Kashmir, Pakistan, the judiciary, or the armed forces. They have also been barred from targeting the Chief Election Commissioner or members of the Election Commission.

The code prohibits candidates from offering bribes, inducements, or any form of favor to persuade rival candidates to withdraw from the contest. They are also required to cooperate fully with election officials, with legal action to be taken against those violating the rules.

In addition, candidates are forbidden from seeking support from government or semi-government officials during election campaigns. The code further prohibits any agreement aimed at preventing women or members of the transgender community from exercising their right to vote.

Candidates have also been instructed to avoid using inflammatory or hate-filled language that could incite violence or disturb public order.

The Election Commission said the code of conduct is intended to ensure free, fair, transparent, and peaceful elections across Azad Jammu and Kashmir.