GB Govt Reviews Preparations for 2026 General Elections

GILGIT (Web Desk): The Gilgit-Baltistan caretaker government held a high-level meeting to review preparations for the upcoming 2026 general elections, reaffirming its commitment to transparent, peaceful, and timely polls.

The meeting was chaired by Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (R) Yar Muhammad and Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan (Tamgha-e-Shujaat). It was attended by caretaker ministers, Chief Secretary Arshad Majeed Mohmand, Provincial Election Commissioner Abid Raza, relevant secretaries, and Returning Officers from all districts via video link.

Officials from the Election Commission of Gilgit-Baltistan gave a detailed briefing on overall election readiness, including administrative arrangements, logistics, financial matters, law and order, and inter-departmental coordination. It was emphasized that all arrangements would be carried out strictly under the Election Act 2017.

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A comprehensive election plan has been finalized, outlining departmental responsibilities and timelines. District administrations reviewed arrangements for polling stations, staff deployment, transport, and other essential facilities. A monitoring mechanism has also been established to ensure timely completion of all tasks.

The meeting was informed that close coordination is underway to ensure timely release of funds and availability of resources, while instructions have been issued to promptly address any potential hurdles.

Law and order, especially in sensitive areas, was discussed in detail. Security agencies were directed to implement proactive measures, enhance intelligence sharing, and prepare comprehensive security plans for polling stations, transportation of election materials, and result compilation. Mock drills and emergency preparedness were also emphasized.

Participants stressed the need for strong coordination among departments and directed the establishment of an effective control room and communication system to ensure swift response during the election process.

Media management was also discussed, with a focus on ensuring timely and accurate information dissemination. Authorities agreed to implement strict monitoring mechanisms to curb misinformation, hate content, and illegal propaganda, with close coordination between the Information Department, Election Commission, and law enforcement agencies.

Strict enforcement of the election code of conduct was highlighted, with a warning that violations by political parties or candidates would result in indiscriminate action. An effective complaint redressal system has also been put in place to ensure transparency.

Contingency plans were reviewed, including alternate polling stations, communication systems, and transport arrangements to handle any emergency situation.

Addressing the meeting, the caretaker chief minister assured full government support to the Election Commission and urged all departments to work collectively to strengthen public trust. He directed officials to identify and resolve issues promptly.

The Chief Election Commissioner appreciated the government’s cooperation and said that strict monitoring mechanisms have been implemented to ensure transparent elections, with zero tolerance for violations of the election law.

The Chief Secretary stated that all government institutions would fulfill their responsibilities efficiently and directed public servants to remain neutral and strictly adhere to the code of conduct.

Caretaker ministers also pledged full cooperation, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections across Gilgit-Baltistan.