Polling for 23 seats in Gilgit Baltistan

ISLAMABAD: Polling was held on Thursday for 23 seats of Gilgit Baltistan Legislative Assembly Thursday, which is expected to attract 700,000 voters.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League (N), Pakistan Muslim League (Q), Gilgit-Baltistan Democratic Alliance and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) are participating.

There are 24 seats for the proposed Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.

PML (Q) has accused the PPP of massive rigging in various constituencies. “The ruling PPP has either purchased or coerced voters,” said PML (Q) member of National Assembly Marvi Memon.

All participating parties are claiming victory.

While addressing a public meeting in Sakrdu, Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said: “Our party has fulfilled its commitment for the empowerment of the people of Northern Areas.” He declared Skardu as the capital of new administrative region of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Ex-Premier Nawaz Sharif visited the area and called on the PPP leadership to take the opportunity to repeal the 17th amendment to the Constitution and implement the Charter of Democracy.