PML-N president meets party leaders and candidates as Election Commission clears visit amid heightened political tensions and allegations of uneven campaigning.
GILGIT-BALTISTAN: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif arrived in Gilgit-Baltistan on Tuesday for a one-day visit, as the region gears up for elections scheduled on June 7.
Upon arrival, Nawaz Sharif was received by Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam, former G-B chief minister Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman, Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar, and other senior party figures.
A number of federal ministers and party leaders, including Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Sanaullah, Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Senator Anusha Rahman, and Kazim Pirzada, are accompanying him during the visit.
Meetings with Candidates and Party Leadership
During his stay, Nawaz Sharif is scheduled to hold key meetings with PML-N leaders and party ticket holders contesting the upcoming elections.
The visit is being seen as part of a final mobilisation drive by major political parties as campaigning enters its closing phase ahead of polling day.
Election Commission Grants NOC for Visit
A day prior to the visit, the Election Commission issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) allowing Nawaz Sharif to travel to Gilgit-Baltistan for participation in election-related activities.
The Election Commission Secretariat of G-B stated that the permission was granted under strict compliance with the Elections Act, 2017, applicable laws, and the Code of Conduct for General Elections 2026.
It warned that any violation of electoral rules would result in legal consequences and possible proceedings against those responsible.
Rising Political Tensions in G-B
The political atmosphere in Gilgit-Baltistan has intensified in recent days, with allegations from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that its candidates have been restricted from campaigning.
The accusations have added further heat to an already competitive electoral environment, as major parties make last-minute efforts to consolidate voter support.
