ISLAMABAD, August 3, 2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday congratulated the leadership of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and its successful candidates after the party maintained a commanding lead in the second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections, according to unofficial results.
The unofficial vote count showed the PML-N securing 14 of the 18 seats contested in the second phase, strengthening its position after also emerging as the dominant party in the first phase of polling held last week. The latest outcome places the ruling party in a strong position ahead of the final phase of the AJK elections.
In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif praised the efforts of PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, party workers, and candidates, saying the continued electoral success reflected the confidence of the people of AJK in the party’s leadership and development agenda. He described the victory as the result of a well-organized election campaign and years of dedicated public service.
The prime minister reaffirmed that the development, prosperity, and welfare of the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir would remain among the government’s highest priorities. He also appreciated the participation of various political parties in the electoral process, stating that democratic competition strengthens institutions and promotes political stability.
However, the election was not without controversy. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), a coalition partner of the PML-N at the federal level, alleged widespread electoral irregularities, including rigging and incidents of violence during polling. PPP leaders demanded a transparent investigation into the complaints and questioned the fairness of the electoral process. Similar allegations had also surfaced during the first phase of the elections.
The AJK Legislative Assembly elections are being conducted in multiple phases due to security and logistical considerations. With the PML-N extending its lead in the second phase, political observers believe the party is well-positioned to secure a decisive majority once the remaining constituencies go to the polls. Final official results will be announced by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission after the completion of the counting process and verification of results.
