Azad Kashmir elections: commission curbs state resources in 7 seats

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission has put strict limits on the use of government money and power in seven constituencies of Poonch and Sudhnoti districts, where general elections were postponed because of law and order concerns.

The decision was taken on Thursday, 5 November, at a meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner retired Justice Ghulam Mustafa Mughal, and the rules apply immediately until voting in those seats is complete.

What is now banned in the seven constituencies?

• No appointments or transfers: no government jobs, transfers or new posts without the commission’s prior approval
• No handouts: ministers and AJK Legislative Assembly members cannot distribute development funds, Zakat, Auqaf, social action or Baitul Maal money
• No goods: no distribution of electricity poles, water pipes, timber or felled trees
• No new schemes: new development projects are banned under Section 116-B of the AJK Election Act; routine work already in the annual development programme can continue
• No ribbon-cutting: candidates cannot inaugurate projects
• Officials stay out: government employees cannot attend election gatherings or campaign (except on security duty), and government vehicles cannot be used for rallies

Why the commission acted

Political leaders and district representatives complained that the long delay in polling could be used to win over voters with state resources. The commission said the curbs are meant to stop the “misuse of state resources” and give all candidates a level playing field.

The chief election commissioner warned that, on concrete evidence, employees can be suspended and candidates disqualified.

When will these seats vote?

No new polling date has been announced. The commission urged the AJK government to improve law and order so that elections can be held “at the earliest”.

Watch for the commission’s announcement of a new schedule once the security situation is reviewed.