Exciting Changes Ahead: Elections Returning to Gilgit-Baltistan!

Great news for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan! After a long wait of 21 years, elected local bodies are back in the region. The Election Commission has officially announced that polls for local government will be held on February 14, 2026. From 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, citizens can cast their votes for various tiers, including Union Councils, District Councils, and Municipal Corporations.

The Chief Election Commissioner, Raja Shahbaz Khan, has assured everyone that the elections will follow established protocols, specifically the Elections Act, 2017, and the Gilgit-Baltistan Local Government Act, 2014. Nomination papers can be submitted between December 22 and December 26, with the final candidate list being released on January 15, 2026.

Khan emphasized the importance of a transparent electoral process in strengthening democracy, saying it’s essential for building trust among the public. To ensure the process runs smoothly, senior judicial officers will serve as District Returning Officers across all ten districts.

These elections are not just a formality; they represent a significant step toward reviving grassroots democracy, something many believe has been lacking since the last local elections in 2004. The community will finally have a voice in local decision-making, which is incredibly empowering.

Additionally, the Election Commission has set the date for the General Elections for the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly for January 24, 2026. To prepare, an All-Party Conference (APC) is scheduled for December 18. This meeting aims to gather feedback from all political parties to ensure a clean and fair election process.

As we look forward to these pivotal elections, it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged. Understanding the electoral process can help each of us make well-informed decisions when the time comes to cast our votes.

For more insights and updates on community engagement, don’t forget to connect with Pro21st. We’re all about building connections that matter!

At Pro21st, we believe in sharing updates that matter.
Stay connected for more real conversations, fresh insights, and 21st-century perspectives.