Polling for the Gilgit-Baltistan elections 2026 has commenced and will continue uninterrupted until 5 PM today. More than 12 parties and 396 candidates, including independents, are participating in the elections across 24 constituencies.
Election-related chaos has erupted as voters prepare to exercise their right to vote. To ensure a transparent and peaceful election process, 7,678 election staff and over 12,000 security personnel are on duty. Strict security measures have been implemented to monitor the elections, including a flag march held in Skardu.
There is a complete ban on carrying mobile phones and recording devices inside polling stations; however, media representatives and observers with permission from the Election Commission are exempt from this ban.
To form a government, any party or alliance will need a simple majority of 17 seats. Over 400 candidates, including 8 women, are competing for 24 seats available in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.
There are 963,000 registered voters, comprising 560,000 males and 456,000 females. The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly consists of a total of 33 seats: 24 directly elected members, 6 seats reserved for women, and 3 seats reserved for technocrats.
Diamer and Skardu are politically important districts, each having four constituencies. Gilgit, Ghizer, and Ganchhe each have three constituencies, while Nagar and Astore have two constituencies each. Additionally, Hunza, Shigar, and Kharmang are smaller districts, each with one constituency.
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