GB Assembly Election Schedule 2026

President Asif Ali Zardari has officially announced the GB Assembly Election Schedule 2026, setting January 24, 2026, as the polling day for the next Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly. The schedule, issued in compliance with the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 and the Election Act, marks the beginning of a crucial political process in one of Pakistan’s most strategically important regions.

Also Read: Punjab CM Orders Body Cameras for PERA Force Operations

The announcement comes shortly after the completion of the previous assembly’s five-year term, leading to the installation of a caretaker government that will oversee the lead-up to the elections. With Gilgit-Baltistan’s political landscape evolving rapidly and the region holding immense geo-economic importance due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the 2026 elections are expected to draw significant national attention.

Caretaker Government Installed After Assembly Tenure Ends

The outgoing Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly completed its constitutional five-year tenure on November 24, 2025, after which a notification was issued confirming its dissolution. In accordance with constitutional provisions, a caretaker setup was required to be installed to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.

On November 25, Justice (retd) Yar Muhammad was appointed as the Caretaker Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan. His appointment was finalized after consultations between the Leader of the Opposition and the Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Amir Muqam. The decision, taken under Article 148-A, was formally approved by the Chairman of the Gilgit-Baltistan Council.

Governor Syed Mehdi Shah administered the oath of office to the newly appointed caretaker CM on November 26, marking the beginning of the transition period ahead of the upcoming elections. The caretaker government is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring neutrality and maintaining administrative order during the electoral process.

Complete Election Timeline for GB Assembly Election Schedule 2026

According to the detailed GB Assembly Election Schedule 2026, the Election Commission of Gilgit-Baltistan (ECGB) has laid out a comprehensive process to ensure smooth and organized electoral proceedings.

Key Dates in the Election Schedule:

• Nomination Papers Submission: December 3–8, 2025

• Initial Candidates’ List: December 9, 2025

• Scrutiny of Nomination Papers: December 16, 2025

• Last Date for Filing Objections: December 20, 2025

• Decisions on Objections: December 27, 2025

• Final List of Candidates: December 28, 2025

• Withdrawal of Candidatures: December 29, 2025

• Allotment of Election Symbols: December 30, 2025

• Polling Day: January 24, 2026

The Election Commission has urged all political parties and candidates to adhere to the schedule, emphasizing transparency, compliance with electoral laws, and orderly conduct. Early issuance of the schedule provides ample time for administrative preparations, voter awareness campaigns, and political mobilization.

Background: The 2020 Gilgit-Baltistan Elections

The last elections in Gilgit-Baltistan were held in November 2020—a delay from the previously planned August date due to severe COVID-19 restrictions. In those elections, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the dominant political force after securing 16 out of 24 general seats. With additional seats distributed for women and technocrats, PTI achieved a historic two-thirds majority, securing 22 out of 33 seats.

Also Read: SNGPL Announces New Winter Gas Schedule for Punjab, KP

Khalid Khurshid was elected as Chief Minister after the PTI victory. However, his tenure came to an abrupt end in July 2023 when the Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Court disqualified him over a fake degree case. This triggered political reshuffling and ultimately led to the dissolution of the PTI-led government in GB.

Political Transition After CM Khurshid’s Disqualification

Following Khurshid’s disqualification, a new political alignment emerged. On July 13, 2023, Gulbar Khan, another PTI member, was elected Chief Minister with 19 votes—supported not only by PTI dissidents but also by members of PPP, PML-N, and JUI-F.

His cabinet represented a cross-party arrangement with:

• 9 members from the PTI forward bloc

• 2 from PML-N

• 2 from PPP

• 1 from JUI-F

This period marked one of the most politically dynamic eras in GB, with shifting alliances and internal party fractures redefining the region’s governance.

Parties at the End of the 3rd GB Assembly Term

The political landscape entering the GB Assembly Election Schedule 2026 includes multiple parties with varying ideological backgrounds and regional influence.

Party Position Breakdown Before Assembly Dissolution:

• PTI: 20 seats

• PPP: 5 seats

• PML-N: 3 seats

• MWM: 1 seat

• ITP: 1 seat

• JUI-F: 1 seat

• BNF(N): 1 seat (Independent-aligned)

With reserved seats included, the composition reflected a multiparty environment, though largely dominated by PTI until internal rifts weakened its majority.

Major Issues Expected in the 2026 GB Elections

1. Constitutional Status Debate

One of the most sensitive issues is the long-standing proposal to grant Gilgit-Baltistan provisional provincial status. Both government and opposition have debated the timing and potential implications, especially regarding Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir.

Also Read: KP Govt Expands Martyrs’ Quota and Hiring Policy

2. Transparency and Fairness

Opposition parties, including PML-N and PPP, have consistently warned against any federal interference in the elections, citing national security concerns and GB’s geopolitical sensitivity.

3. Economic Development and CPEC

Gilgit-Baltistan holds critical importance due to CPEC, leading to increased focus on infrastructure, economic development, and tourism potential—topics expected to dominate political campaigns.

4. Performance of Caretaker Government

The neutrality and effectiveness of the caretaker setup will remain under scrutiny as voters expect a fair and credible electoral environment.

Conclusion

The announcement of the GB Assembly Election Schedule 2026 by President Asif Ali Zardari officially sets the stage for a crucial political milestone in Gilgit-Baltistan. With polling scheduled for January 24, 2026, political parties are now gearing up for a competitive election in a region deeply linked to Pakistan’s strategic, economic, and geopolitical landscape.

The upcoming elections will determine the future governance direction, shape the debate over provincial status, and influence development projects vital for regional stability and national progress.