Independent Report
Gilgit, October 28, 2025
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gilgit-Baltistan, Raja Shehbaz Khan, announced that the current provincial government will complete its constitutional tenure on November 24, 2025, after which general elections will be held.
Speaking at a press conference at the Election Commission Secretariat, the CEC said that under Section 14 of the Elections Act, a comprehensive election plan has been approved. He informed that 991,124 voters will exercise their right to vote in the upcoming elections, and the Election Commission is fully committed to ensuring a transparent and impartial electoral process.
Raja Shehbaz Khan stated that the elections are linked to the Constitution and law, not the weather, and all administrative and legal preparations have been completed. He revealed that errors in voter lists have been corrected with NADRA’s assistance, and the lists are now more accurate and reliable.
Since 2020, more than 142,000 new CNICs have been issued, though registration of over 227,000 eligible citizens remains pending. The CEC announced that voter registration lists will be displayed publicly from today to ensure no eligible voter is excluded.
He appealed to citizens to verify their credentials promptly and instructed the district administration to fully support the voter registration campaign before the election schedule is announced.
Raja Shehbaz Khan clarified that local government elections will be held separately, and their delimitation process has been completed. He appreciated the provincial government for its cooperation in strengthening the local governance system.
The CEC added that the Election Act and Code of Conduct will soon be released, and any political party or candidate found violating the law will face strict, impartial action.
He reaffirmed that no corruption or negligence will be tolerated at any level and that all arrangements will prioritize public convenience.
Concluding his address, Raja Shehbaz Khan said that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan are law-abiding and politically conscious, and their responsible participation will ensure the success of the democratic process.
He reiterated that the Election Commission’s mission is clear — to uphold the rule of law, merit, and the integrity of transparent elections.
