AJK: new govt, new task

A tumultuous and bitterly contested electoral process in AJK - marred by a historically low turnout - came full circle as the PML-N's Iftikhar Ali Gillani was sworn in as Prime Minister. The incumbent secured 30 votes, while his sole rival, from the PPP, bagged 14, demonstrating the PML-N's decisive majority in the Legislative Assembly. While the new PM has vowed to ensure good governance, digitise the economy and protect the fundamental rights of the citizens, he and his party must now walk the talk.

Conducted in three phases for the first time in AJK's history, these elections have undeniably left a bitter mark, stoking polarization in a historically harmonious society. The true test for Gillani and the PML-N lies in how swiftly and collaboratively they can engage with aggrieved factions to undertake a necessary damage-control initiative. The primary agenda for the new government must be to initiate dialogue with the apolitical Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has been banned by the government, and resolve the grievances that pushed the region to the brink. In doing so, the administration must exercise restraint, allowing the JAAC to present its perspective in a conducive environment. Delivering timely justice to individuals detained during the recent skirmishes, alongside compensating for their losses, will serve as crucial signals on the path to reconciliation.

Gillani and his cabinet must also initiate a broad-based legislative debate regarding the viability of reserved seats, incorporating the perspectives of both the JAAC and the opposition before finalising any decision. The fact that Islamabad and Muzaffarabad have consistently championed the Kashmiri freedom struggle, while maintaining an unhindered, autonomous electoral process, remains a core strength. This democratic foundation can be further strengthened by resolving the final JAAC demand concerning assembly seats for Kashmiri refugees.

The fact that politics in AJK has always been issue-oriented remains a source of pride. Major parties like the PML-N, PPP, PTI and Muslim Conference collectively share a responsibility to deliver on this legacy, consolidating a sense of absolute unity across the state.