MUZAFFARABAD, Aug 02 (Alliance News): Polling for the second phase of the 2026 Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections began on Sunday across Muzaffarabad Division and 12 refugee constituencies in Pakistan amid heightened security arrangements.
Voting started at 8:00 a.m. and will continue uninterrupted until 5:00 p.m. More than 200 candidates are contesting nine seats in Muzaffarabad Division, while 137 candidates are in the race for 12 refugee seats, according to election officials.
The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission has deployed around 18,000 security personnel to ensure peaceful polling. Authorities said all necessary arrangements have been completed, including the establishment of polling stations and the deployment of election staff.
The second phase follows polling in Mirpur Division held last week, which was accompanied by allegations of irregularities and isolated incidents of violence. Political parties have urged voters to exercise their democratic right peacefully and called on the authorities to ensure a transparent and fair electoral process.
The final phase of the AJK elections is scheduled to be held in Poonch Division on August 10, completing the three-phase electoral process announced by the election authorities.
