AJK goes to PML-N

The PML-N is poised to form its government in AJK as the state awaits the third and final leg of polling on August 10. Following the first two phases of the election, the PPP stands as the runner-up with 10 seats in the 53-member legislature. The PML-N secured 24 seats based on a relentless pro-development campaign, though its victory was marred by claims that state machinery and influence were misused. The polls, however, saw the weakest turnout in the state's history. This dip came on the heels of an ongoing protest by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which is demanding an end to elite governance culture, fundamental rights for citizens, and primarily, the abolition of the 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees inside Pakistan.

The second phase of the polls across the nine constituencies of Muzaffarabad division witnessed a dismal turnout among the electorate. Mirroring the lethargy that marred the polling in Mirpur division in the first phase, voters preferred to stay away on account of law and order concerns, as well as a boycott called by the JAAC and PTI.

The AJK Election Commission, law enforcement agencies and polling staff deserve credit for their commitment, which ensured that polling took place without any major incident. Their efforts upheld Islamabad's credibility in ensuring an unhindered adult franchise for the people of this strategic region.

The third phase of the polls, scheduled for Monday in Poonch, Bagh and Rawalakot - the theatre of agitations - will present a tough challenge for authorities. An intriguing aspect of this ballot was the rhetoric-laden battle among allies in the federal government – the PPP and the PML-N. The two sides were locked in a free-for-all blame game, citing pre-poll rigging and rampant electoral irregularities.

Ensuring a good turnout in the remaining 11 constituencies comes as a credibility test too. Once the new government is sworn in, its immediate priority must be addressing public grievances. To build genuine trust, the PML-N needs to lead the charge in engaging both apolitical citizens and civil society leaders.