The Pakistan Peoples Party appears on course to form the next government in Gilgit-Baltistan after emerging as the strongest political force in the region’s legislative elections, according to unofficial results from the June 7 polls.
Results compiled through Forms-47 issued by returning officers across all 24 constituencies show the PPP securing 11 seats in the Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz followed with six seats. PTI-backed candidates won two seats, while its ally secured one. Independent candidates claimed the remaining four seats.
The outcome places the PPP in a commanding position as post-election political negotiations continue.
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari Claims Victory
In the early hours of Monday, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari celebrated the party’s performance and signaled its intention to form the next administration.
“The Pakistan Peoples Party is emerging as the single largest party and we will be attempting to form government. I am grateful to the people for their trust and congratulations to Jiyalas on their victory,” said Bhutto-Zardari, whose party had alleged rigging during the polling.
The statement came as election officials continued reviewing complaints and procedural challenges submitted by candidates in several constituencies.
Recount Ordered In Key Constituencies
Election authorities have ordered recounts in two constituencies and directed re-polling at selected polling stations following formal complaints from candidates.
Independent candidate Safdar Ali Shirazi and PPP candidate Nazir Ahmed Advocate requested a recount in GBA-20 (Ghizer-II), citing alleged irregularities during vote counting. Acting on their application, the returning officer approved a recount that is scheduled to take place today.
Authorities have also ordered a recount in GBA-3, Gilgit.
In a separate development, the Election Commission directed fresh polling at three polling stations in GBA-16 (Diamer-II), adding another layer of scrutiny to the election process.
PPP Performs Strongly Across Multiple Districts
The PPP recorded victories across several districts, strengthening its path toward government formation.
PPP regional president Amjad Hussain secured victory in GBA-1 (Gilgit). In Nagar, Muhammad Ali Akhtar won GBA-4 while Zulfiqar Ali Murad captured GBA-5.
The party also posted significant gains in Baltistan. Syed Tauqeer Mehdi won GBA-7 in Skardu, while Fida Muhammad Nashad and Nasir Ali Khan prevailed in GBA-9 and GBA-10. Iqbal Hassan won in Kharmang’s GBA-11, and Imran Nadeem secured victory in GBA-12 of Shigar district.
In Astore, Rana Farman Ali and Rana Muhammad Farooq emerged victorious in GBA-13 and GBA-14 respectively.
Diamer also contributed to the PPP tally, with Ataullah winning GBA-16 and Mohammad Naseem taking GBA-17. In Ghizer, Syed Jalal secured victory in GBA-19.
PML-N, PTI-Backed Candidates And Independents Hold Ground
Despite trailing the PPP, PML-N maintained a notable presence in the assembly.
Former chief minister Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman won GBA-2 (Gilgit), while Abdul Jahan secured GBA-20 in Ghizer. Kifayatur Rehman claimed victory in GBA-18 (Diamer).
PTI-backed independents also registered wins. Sohail Abbas captured GBA-3 in Gilgit, while Naik Nam Karim emerged victorious in GBA-6 (Hunza).
Among other winners, Mohammad Kazim Mesum of MWM secured GBA-8 in Skardu. Independent candidates Dilpazir Khan and Aman Ali won GBA-15 and GBA-21 respectively.
Government Formation Process Begins
With unofficial results indicating that the PPP has emerged as the largest party in the assembly, attention is now shifting toward coalition-building and government formation in Gilgit-Baltistan.
However, recounts and re-polling orders in selected constituencies mean some electoral disputes remain unresolved. The final political picture is expected to become clearer once all election-related proceedings are completed and official confirmations are issued.