PTI suffers another blow in AJK as Forest Minister Akmal Sargala joins PML-N

The political tides in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) continue to shift as Chaudhry Akmal Sargala, AJK’s Forest Minister and a sitting assembly member elected on a PTI ticket in 2021, has officially joined the PML-N parliamentary party, dealing another blow to Imran Khan’s party in the region, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Friday.

Sargala's decision came after a key meeting with PML-N AJK President Shah Ghulam Qadir, signaling accelerating defections from the PTI camp. The PML-N leadership warmly welcomed his inclusion, with congratulatory messages pouring in from senior figures including Raja Farooq Haider, Aamir Altaf, Dr. Najeeb Naqi, and Shaukat Ali Shah.

"Today, Chaudhry Akmal Sargala joined the PML-N parliamentary convoy. His respect and dignity will be safeguarded," said Shah Ghulam Qadir, adding that Sargala’s presence would strengthen the party beyond his constituency.

In his remarks, Akmal Sargala praised the ideology of the PML-N, stating, "This party stands for public service. I firmly believe PML-N will form the next government in Azad Kashmir."

Former Prime Minister of AJK Raja Farooq Haider also lauded the move, declaring, “Sargala will not remain confined to his constituency—he will have a broader role to play.”

Party leaders hailed the development as a positive political signal, especially to refugee constituencies, and predicted more defections in the coming days. "The PML-N is the party that truly cares for the people, and our momentum is only growing," a party spokesperson stated.

With the next AJK elections on the horizon, PML-N leaders expressed confidence in securing a clear majority, fueled by strategic alliances and growing disillusionment within PTI ranks.