Nawaz, Aseefa step into GB election campaign before June 7 polls

GILGIT-BALTISTAN: Political activity has increased across Gilgit-Baltistan as major leaders from different parties arrived in the region ahead of the June 7 elections for 24 seats of the Legislative Assembly.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif arrived in Gilgit on a short visit to campaign for his party. Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Aseefa Bhutto Zardari reached Skardu to address an election rally in constituency GBA-7.

According to officials, preparations for the PPP rally were underway near Yadgar Chowk, and roads in the area were temporarily closed due to security and event arrangements. Party leaders including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Aseefa Bhutto Zardari are expected to address the gathering.

Separately, Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party chairman Aleem Khan also arrived in Skardu to take part in the election campaign.

Authorities have decided to deploy 5,000 Punjab Police personnel in Gilgit-Baltistan for election security duties, following a request from the Election Commission.

During his visit, Nawaz Sharif met party leaders and workers and is expected to announce the party’s “Vision Gilgit-Baltistan” programme.

He also raised concerns over the region’s development, saying many key projects related to infrastructure, energy, and connectivity remained incomplete. He said Gilgit-Baltistan deserved better roads, improved airports, and more regular flight operations.

Nawaz Sharif said he was disappointed with the condition of roads and power supply in the region, adding that long hours of load-shedding were unacceptable. He stressed the need for solar energy projects to address electricity shortages.

He also said that projects such as hospitals, hydropower schemes, and other development initiatives launched during his tenure were still incomplete. He called for renewed focus on infrastructure, including a motorway linking Mansehra to Gilgit.

He further proposed housing schemes, interest-free loans for youth, scholarships, and a women’s university in the region.

Nawaz Sharif said Gilgit-Baltistan plays an important role in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and could become a hub for trade and job creation if development projects are completed on time.

He added that he would continue visiting the region regularly to review development work and ensure progress on pending projects.