GILGIT: Preparations for the 2026 Gilgit-Baltistan elections have been stepped up, with Returning Officers (ROs) issuing official notices to candidates regarding the appointment and registration of polling agents.
As per the directives, candidates are required to submit complete lists of their polling agents along with valid identification documents by May 30. The submission must include copies of CNICs for each polling agent, accompanied by a signed authorisation certificate from the candidate.
Election officials have set 5:00 PM on May 30 as the final deadline warning that no documents or lists will be accepted after the due date and time.
ROs across Gilgit-Baltistan have also instructed all candidates to complete the appointment process of polling agents within the stipulated timeframe as part of the ongoing electoral preparations.
These measures are part of broader arrangements for the 2026 general elections scheduled for June 7 across 24 constituencies in the region.
According to the Election Commission, a total of 693 candidates have filed nomination papers so far, reflecting strong political participation across Gilgit-Baltistan.
Gilgit-2 constituency recorded the highest number of nominations with 65 candidates, followed by Astore-2 with 57 and Ghizer-2 with 42. Diamer-4 reported the lowest with 12 candidates.
Other constituencies, including Nagar-1, Hunza, and Skardu-1, each saw 38 candidates, while Karmang recorded 39 nominations, indicating widespread electoral activity.
The Election Commission described the response as encouraging, highlighting active engagement ahead of the polls. Under the election timetable, scrutiny of nomination papers will conclude by April 28, while appeals will be decided by May 9. Candidates may withdraw nominations until May 11.
Election symbols will be allotted on May 12, and polling will be held on June 7, 2026.
Officials said all arrangements have been finalised and assured that steps are being taken to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and orderly electoral process in cooperation with relevant departments.
