Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Sharmila Faruqui has alleged irregularities in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Elections 2026, claiming that her party believes in the power of the vote while the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) relies on other methods to achieve political success.
Speaking during a television programme, Faruqui alleged that an atmosphere of fear and intimidation was created ahead of polling in Azad Kashmir, giving the impression that the election outcome had already been decided before voters cast their ballots.
She further claimed that the announcement of development initiatives, including Green Bus projects, before election day amounted to pre-poll rigging. According to Faruqui, such announcements could influence voters and undermine the fairness of the electoral process.
The PPP leader also questioned polling arrangements in constituencies where her party traditionally enjoys strong public support. She alleged that polling staff arrived late at several polling stations, raising concerns about transparency and the smooth conduct of the elections.
Referring to the death of a PPP worker during the election period, Faruqui claimed the incident was initially described as resulting from either a push or a heart attack, while the PPP maintains that the worker was deliberately targeted. She urged authorities to ensure a transparent investigation into the matter.
Sharmila Faruqui emphasized that the AJK elections should not be viewed through the political perspectives of Lahore or Karachi, arguing that Azad Kashmir has unique political dynamics and public priorities that differ from other parts of Pakistan.
She also asserted that the people of Azad Kashmir have maintained a longstanding relationship with the PPP and claimed that no other political party enjoys the same level of support in the region.
As of now, the PML-N has not publicly responded to Faruqui’s allegations. Meanwhile, unofficial results from the second phase of the AJK General Elections 2026 continue to emerge, with the PML-N reportedly maintaining a lead in several constituencies.
The Election Commission is expected to continue compiling official results while political parties closely monitor the outcome of one of the most closely watched elections in Azad Kashmir.
