CEC urges public to fully participate in AJK polls

Says security, logistics and polling arrangements completed

MUZAFFARABAD:

With the first phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections set to begin today (Monday), Chief Election Commissioner Justice (Retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal has called on voters to turn out in large numbers and exercise their democratic right peacefully.

He assured the public that the election commission has completed all preparations to ensure free, fair, transparent and impartial polling across Mirpur Division.

Speaking to senior journalists, the chief election commissioner said the entire election

machinery had been fully mobilised and that comprehensive administrative, logistical and security arrangements were in place for polling in the three districts of Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber, where the first phase of the three-stage AJK elections will be held.

He said all polling stations had been equipped with the necessary election material, polling staff had completed their training, and close coordination had been established among the election commission, district administrations and security agencies to ensure the smooth conduct of polling.

"Every vote is a national trust. I urge all eligible voters to come out without fear or hesitation and cast their ballots. Public participation is the true strength of democracy, and every citizen should fulfil this constitutional responsibility peacefully," Mughal said.

The chief election commissioner emphasised that the election commission would not compromise on the transparency, credibility or neutrality of the electoral process under any circumstances.

"We are determined to hold elections that are free, fair and transparent. Any attempt to influence the polling process, violate election laws, intimidate voters or disrupt peace will be dealt with firmly and strictly in accordance with the law," he warned.

He said elaborate security arrangements had been made at all polling stations across Mirpur Division, with the AJK Police, Rangers, the Federal Constabulary and other law enforcement agencies deployed to safeguard polling staff, voters and election material.

According to Mughal, the security plan had been prepared following extensive consultations with the civil administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure a peaceful atmosphere throughout polling day.

He disclosed that, weather permitting, he would personally visit Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber on Monday to inspect polling stations, review security arrangements and monitor the conduct of the election process.

"I want to witness the polling process personally and ensure that voters are able to exercise their democratic right in a peaceful, orderly and transparent environment," he said.

The chief election commissioner also expressed concern over the spread of misinformation on social media ahead of polling, warning that certain elements were attempting to create confusion by circulating false information and unverified content.