ELECTIONEERING: A large number of people attend a PML-N election rally in Haveli area of Azad Kashmir on Friday. PHOTO: EXPRESS
MUZAFFARABAD:
With just days left before the decisive third and final phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) general elections, the PML-N intensified its campaign in Rawalakot Division on Friday, expressing confidence of securing a two-thirds majority in the 45-member Legislative Assembly after polling in Bagh and Haveli on Aug 10.
Addressing a public rally in Haveli, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah said the results of the first two phases of the elections demonstrated public confidence in the PML-N, adding that the party was well placed to secure the numbers required to form the next government in AJK.
“The people have already endorsed the PML-N in the first two phases and the remaining constituencies will further strengthen the party’s mandate,” he said, predicting that voters in Haveli and the three constituencies of Bagh would enable the party to secure a two-thirds majority in the assembly.
The August 10 polling will conclude the three-phase election process, with voters in four constituencies of Bagh and Haveli set to elect their representatives. The outcome will determine the final composition of the 45-member legislature and pave the way for the formation of the next AJK government.
Sanaullah said a PML-N government in AJK would fulfil its election commitments and accelerate development projects in coordination with the federal government.
Referring to commitments announced by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz during the election campaign, he said Punjab-style development initiatives would be extended to AJK, adding that PML-N President Nawaz Sharif would personally oversee major development schemes in the region.
Rejecting allegations of electoral manipulation, he maintained that the first two phases of polling had been conducted in a transparent and peaceful manner and described accusations of rigging as baseless.
Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam, who also addressed the gathering, said the PML-N leadership had consistently stood with the people of AJK and pledged that a future party government would prioritise public welfare and infrastructure development.
He announced that road connectivity and other infrastructure projects in areas along the LoC would receive priority, alongside development schemes aimed at improving public services.
