PPP begins outreach to form G-B govt

ISLAMABAD: Political activity in Gilgit-Baltistan has intensified following the completion of election results, with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) emerging as the largest party and actively working to form the next regional government.

According to political sources, the PPP has initiated discussions with the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) and formally invited the party to join a coalition government, though no agreement has yet been reached.

At the same time, MWM leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas has reportedly contacted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar to discuss the evolving political landscape. Sources said PTI leadership has been kept informed about ongoing political consultations and possible alliances.

The final election results show the PPP securing 11 seats in the 24-member assembly, followed by the PML-N with six seats. The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) became the third-largest group after four independent lawmakers joined its ranks. Meanwhile, MWM won one seat, while two PTI-backed independent candidates were also elected.

Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan confirmed that results for all 24 constituencies have been finalized and notifications for successful candidates will be issued after procedural requirements are completed.

Nine reserved seats, including six for women and three for technocrats, will be allocated according to proportional representation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the PPP on becoming the leading party and announced that the PML-N would sit in opposition while supporting PPP's efforts to form the government. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari welcomed the cooperation, saying his party would focus on addressing governance issues and public concerns in Gilgit-Baltistan.