GILGIT (MNN); The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday formally issued the schedule for the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, confirming that voting will be held on January 24, 2026
The notification lays out the complete timeline for filing nominations, scrutiny, appeals, and withdrawal of papers. According to the ECP, candidates can submit their nomination papers until December 15, while scrutiny will take place from December 23 to December 30.
Appeals against acceptance or rejection of nomination papers may be filed until January 3, 2026. The election tribunal will decide these appeals by January 10. The final list of candidates will be released on January 11, and candidates may withdraw their nominations on January 12. Election symbols will be allotted on January 13.
The ECP has also appointed district returning officers (DROs) for all districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Amir Hamza has been appointed DRO for Gilgit, Khurshid Ahmed for Skardu, Suhail Ahmed Khan for Diamer, and Luqman Hakim for Ghizer.
In Astore, Minhaj Ali Raja will serve as DRO, while Deputy Commissioner Nizamuddin will supervise the election process in Hunza. Manhas Hussain has been appointed in Nagar, Mohammad Ishaq in Ghanche, and Additional Sessions Judge Mohammad Sharif will oversee Kharmang. Manzoor Hussain will act as DRO for Shigar.
The ECP stated that all arrangements are being expedited to ensure a transparent, impartial, and smooth election process across Gilgit-Baltistan.
