Political activity has intensified across Gilgit-Baltistan ahead of the June 7 elections for 24 seats of the Legislative Assembly, as senior leaders of major political parties criss-cross the region to bolster support and outline development agendas.
The final days of campaigning have seen high-profile visits, with former prime minister Nawaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) arriving in Gilgit on a brief tour, while Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leadership, including Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, held rallies in Skardu and surrounding constituencies. The surge in activity reflects heightened competition in what is being seen as a closely watched regional contest in Gilgit-Baltistan.
According to party officials, Nawaz Sharif met local ticket-holders and organisational leaders during his visit and is expected to announce a “Vision Gilgit-Baltistan” outlining infrastructure, energy and connectivity projects. Addressing supporters, he criticised the region’s current state of development, highlighting poor road conditions, electricity shortages lasting up to 20 hours in some areas, and delays in major infrastructure schemes initiated during previous PML-N governments.
He pledged renewed focus on transport and energy projects, including airport expansion, improved flight connectivity, hydropower development and the revival of stalled schemes such as the Diamer-Bhasha Dam land acquisition process. Nawaz also stressed the strategic importance of the region within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), arguing that improved infrastructure could boost trade and employment.
Meanwhile, PPP chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari addressed a rally in Shigar, emphasising political and constitutional rights for Gilgit-Baltistan. He called for greater fiscal and administrative autonomy and reiterated demands for synchronised elections between the region and the rest of Pakistan. The PPP leader also defended social protection programmes such as the Benazir Income Support Programme, warning against attempts to devolve federal welfare schemes to provincial control.
In Skardu, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari addressed supporters at constituency GBA-7, where preparations for large rallies led to road closures and heightened security arrangements. Party workers reported significant mobilisation ahead of her address, which was also expected to be joined by senior PPP leadership.
Other political actors, including Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party chairman Aleem Khan, also visited Skardu as part of their campaign efforts, underscoring the multi-party contest for influence in the region.
Security preparations have intensified alongside campaigning, with authorities reportedly deploying around 5,000 Punjab Police personnel to assist local forces during the electoral process. The Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission had requested additional manpower to ensure law and order during polling.