CEC Delays Gilgit-Baltistan Election Results, Orders Re-polling
The Election Commission of Pakistan (CEC) has delayed the finalization of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) election results but stated that official notifications will be issued within 14 days, according to a report by Dawn. The commission also ordered re-polling in multiple constituencies, citing procedural irregularities, as reported by The Express Tribune.
The CEC’s decision to withhold results comes amid reports of contested votes and administrative challenges in the region. A statement from the commission said, “The final results will be announced within 14 days of the polling day, pending the resolution of outstanding issues,” according to Dawn. The delay has raised concerns among political parties about the transparency of the process.
Re-polling was ordered in several constituencies, including those in Gilgit and Skardu, following complaints of voter list discrepancies and alleged intimidation, The Express Tribune reported. The CEC did not specify the exact number of affected constituencies but confirmed that the re-votes would be conducted “in accordance with the electoral code of conduct.”
Political leaders from the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have expressed frustration over the delays. PPP leader Aminul Haq stated, “The prolonged process undermines public confidence in the electoral system,” while PML-N’s Khalid Khurshid called for “immediate resolution of disputes to ensure fair representation,” according to Geo News.
Despite the delays, preliminary data from the election suggests the PPP is leading in key districts, with independent candidates holding critical votes in constituencies where no single party secured a majority. Geo News reported that independents could play a decisive role in forming the next government, as no party has achieved a clear mandate.
The CEC’s handling of the results has drawn mixed reactions. While some stakeholders praised the commission for prioritizing accuracy, others criticized the lack of clarity on the re-polling timeline. “The delay is necessary to address grievances, but the public deserves regular updates,” said Dr. Farooq Khan, a political analyst in Islamabad, as cited by Arab News.
The GB elections, held on June 10, 2026, were the first under a revised electoral framework aimed at increasing representation for the region’s minority communities. The results will determine the composition of the GB Legislative Assembly, which has limited powers compared to provincial governments in Pakistan.
As the CEC works to finalize the results, political parties are preparing for potential negotiations to form a coalition government. The PPP’s lead in key areas and the influence of independent candidates could shape the region’s political landscape for the next five years.
The commission has not yet provided a detailed timeline for the re-polling process, but officials indicated that it would be completed “as soon as possible,” according to Dawn. Meanwhile, observers are monitoring the situation for any signs of unrest or further delays.
The outcome of the GB elections could have broader implications for Pakistan’s federal structure, as the region’s governance model remains a topic of debate among policymakers. The final results, expected by June 24, 2026, will be critical in determining the balance of power in the area.