A high-level meeting was held under the joint chairmanship of Caretaker Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Justice (R) Yar Muhammad and Chief Election Commissioner Gilgit-Baltistan Raja Shahbaz Khan to review preparations for the upcoming General Elections 2026.
The meeting was attended by all caretaker ministers, the spokesperson of the provincial caretaker government, Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Arshad Majeed Mohmand, Provincial Election Commissioner Abid Raza, and other concerned secretaries, while Returning Officers (ROs) from all districts participated via video link.
During the session, the Election Commission Gilgit-Baltistan gave a detailed briefing on the overall preparations for the elections. The briefing covered various aspects, including different phases of the electoral process, financial and administrative matters, logistics, security arrangements, law and order, and inter-institutional coordination.
It was reiterated that all arrangements for conducting the election would be carried out strictly in accordance with the Election Act 2017, ensuring that all departments fulfill their responsibilities in a timely and effective manner. The meeting also emphasized that a comprehensive and well-defined plan has already been formulated, outlining departmental responsibilities and timelines. Measures taken by district administrations regarding polling stations, staff deployment, transportation, and other essential facilities were also reviewed. An effective monitoring mechanism has been established to ensure timely completion of all tasks before polling day.
On financial, administrative, and logistical support, the meeting was informed that close coordination with relevant departments is in place to ensure timely release of funds and availability of resources. Instructions were issued to immediately address any potential hurdles to avoid delays or disruptions in the electoral process.
The law and order situation across all districts, particularly sensitive areas, was reviewed in detail. Relevant institutions were directed to ensure peace through proactive security measures, intelligence sharing, and coordinated strategies. Security agencies were instructed to develop comprehensive security plans for polling stations, transportation of election material, and result compilation, conduct rehearsals, and remain prepared to handle emergencies.
The meeting also stressed strengthening coordination among departments and directed the establishment of an effective control room and communication system to ensure prompt response and uninterrupted communication during the election process.
Detailed deliberations were also held on print, electronic, and social media. It was agreed to ensure timely dissemination of accurate information to the public while establishing an effective monitoring mechanism to curb misinformation, hate content, and illegal propaganda.
Departments of Information, the Election Commission, and law enforcement agencies were directed to enhance coordination for swift action against irresponsible content.
Strict implementation of the election code of conduct was emphasized, with a clear directive that all political parties and candidates have been duly informed, and any violations will be dealt with impartially. A robust complaint redressal system has also been established to ensure transparency and public confidence.
Comprehensive contingency plans were also discussed to tackle potential emergencies, including arrangements for alternate polling stations, communication systems, and transportation, with all relevant institutions directed to remain on high alert.
Speaking on the occasion, the Caretaker Chief Minister assured full support to the Election Commission, stating that all institutions would work collectively to strengthen public trust. He stressed the importance of timely identification and resolution of issues and directed all secretaries to work closely with the Election Commission to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. He added that the entire government machinery has been placed at the disposal of the Election Commission.
The Chief Election Commissioner appreciated the cooperation of the Caretaker Chief Minister and stated that an effective monitoring system has been implemented to ensure transparent elections. He warned that strict action would be taken against any violations under the Election Act and directed security agencies to take all necessary measures to ensure peaceful and impartial elections.
The Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan stated that all government institutions would perform this national duty with full commitment and directed government employees to refrain from political activities while strictly adhering to the Election Commission’s code of conduct.
Caretaker ministers also assured full cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to work in coordination with all relevant institutions to ensure transparent, fair, and peaceful elections.