The Election Commission of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has allowed Acting President Chaudhry Latif Akbar to contest the upcoming election from constituency LA-31 Khawara after accepting his appeal against the rejection of his nomination papers.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, in a reserved verdict announced on Wednesday, Chief Election Commissioner Justice (Retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal set aside the returning officer’s decision to reject Akbar’s nomination papers, clearing the way for him to participate in the election.
The ruling came after the Election Commission heard arguments from all parties involved in the case. The commission ultimately decided in favour of Akbar, enabling him to remain in the electoral contest for the constituency.
Following the announcement, supporters of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) gathered outside the Election Commission offices to celebrate the decision. Party workers chanted slogans and described the verdict as a victory for the democratic process.
The decision is expected to reshape the political landscape in LA-31 Khawara, where a closely fought contest is anticipated. Political observers expect a strong challenge between Akbar and Raja Saqib Majeed of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).
The constituency witnessed a fiercely contested election during the previous poll, with both candidates involved in a closely matched race. The latest ruling has therefore set the stage for another highly competitive electoral battle in the area.
Reporter: Hashir Waraich