GB local bodies polls postponed to September 27 due to Muharram

Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan on Monday announced the postponement of local government elections in the region from August 2 to September 27.

Addressing a press conference, the chief election commissioner said several religious organisations had requested that the elections not be held during Muharram and the Chehlum of Imam Hussain (RA).

He said that although Monday was the last date for submitting nomination papers, the scrutiny process has now been extended to August 10, 2026 in view of Muharram. He added that polling for local government elections will now take place on September 27, 2026, across 1,343 wards in the region.

Raja Shahbaz Khan said local government elections are a longstanding public demand and are important for addressing issues at the grassroots level.

He further said the elections will be held on a party basis and independent candidates will not be allowed. The minimum age for contesting candidates has been set at 25 years.

Earlier this month, the GB Election Commission had scheduled the polls for August 2 across the region.