Lead

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) appeared to be consolidating its lead over the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections, according to preliminary and unofficial results reported by Dawn. The PPP has alleged widespread rigging, while polling in two constituencies was postponed due to landslides and bad weather.

Coverage Comparison

Dawn's coverage, based on two of its reports, indicates that the PML-N's strong performance was evident in the Mirpur division's first phase and continued into the second phase, which included refugee constituencies across Pakistan. The PPP's allegations of rigging and incidents of violence were also highlighted. The reports focused on the initial tally, with the PML-N leading in most contests, and noted the postponement of polling in two constituencies.

Key Claims

  • PML-N's Lead: The PML-N was leading in most contests in the AJK Legislative Assembly elections, according to preliminary results reported by Dawn. In the first phase, the PML-N won nine out of 13 constituencies in the Mirpur division, as per official results issued by the Election Commission.
  • PPP's Allegations: The PPP alleged widespread rigging in the elections, with party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari accusing the PML-N of using violence and coercion to "rob" the mandate of the people of Azad Kashmir. PPP leaders also accused the PML-N of electoral malpractice.
  • Postponed Polling: The Election Commission deferred polling in two constituencies—LA-27 Muzaffarabad-I (Kutla) and parts of LA-28 Muzaffarabad-II (Lachhrat)—until Tuesday because polling staff and material could not reach due to landslides and bad weather blocking roads in the Neelum Valley.
  • Violence and Scuffles: Sporadic violence occurred in the AJK capital Muzaffarabad, and scuffles were reported during polling. The PML-N and PPP accused each other of being responsible for the disturbances.
  • PML-N's Victory Claims: PML-N spokesperson Azma Bokhari claimed that the PML-N would secure a massive victory, saying voters were "deeply impressed" by the performance of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

Perspectives

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP): The PPP alleges widespread rigging and electoral malpractice, with Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari accusing the PML-N of using violence, bullets, and batons to undermine the mandate of the people of Azad Kashmir.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N): The PML-N, through its spokesperson Azma Bokhari, claims it is on track for a massive victory, attributing its lead to its campaign and the popularity of its leadership.