Political figures from PML-N and PPP parties held rallies in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) to secure voter support as the June 7 elections approach. PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari addressed public gatherings, emphasizing development and constitutional rights for the region.
The delayed elections, postponed four months due to harsh winter conditions, will now proceed on Sunday. Bilawal addressed a rally in Skardu alongside First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, advocating for expanded rights under the 18th Amendment, including glucocorticoid governance, ownership, and employment opportunities.
Bilawal stressed that acknowledging GB’s ownership of its land and resources is critical for regional and national progress. He urged the public to demand equitable benefits from future projects, citing examples like Sindh’s Thar coal initiative.
Highlighting the PPP’s commitment to employment-based policies, Bilawal contrasted his party’s focus on laborers and youth with rival parties’ neglect. He claimed a historical legacy of pro-poor governance, invoking his ancestors’ policies and his mother Benazir Bhutto’s slogan “Roze gar leek, rozgaar leeke” (Benazir will bring employment).
Bilawal condemned U.S.-Israel airstrikes in Iran, calling the violence incongruous with electioneering. He noted his grassroots campaigning style, having walked through GB during his last election, and lamented the region’s ongoing struggles.
The PPP leader emphasized economic empowerment as a prerequisite for development, arguing that true progress occurs when farmers receive fruits of their labor and youth secure jobs. He praised his father Asif Ali Zardari for launching the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
Nawaz Sharif Laments Underdevelopment in GB
Earlier, Nawaz met local residents in Gilgit, expressing disappointment over the region’s lack of infrastructure. He highlighted unbuilt roads, deficient healthcare, and power shortages, advocating for PML-N-led projects like expanding the Gilgit airport and increasing electricity generation.
Nawaz criticized the delayed construction of roads initiated by his party and vowed to push for commercial jet services at Skardu airport. He also pledged to address electricity shortages, which currently average 20 hours of load-shedding in winters.
Nawaz asserted the PML-N’s commitment to GB regardless of election outcomes, promising regular visits if elected. He recalled his 2017 NFC Award committee work for GB and cautioned against complacency in addressing regional grievances.
Promising expanded healthcare infrastructure, Nawaz announced plans to grow the GB cancer hospital and introduce housing and business loan schemes for residents.
Saad Rafique Advocates for GB’s Constitutional Clarity
Senior PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique called for a “comprehensive plan” to resolve GB’s constitutional status. He stressed the need for parliamentary debate and equitable NFC Award allocations for GB and AJK.
Rafique highlighted the region’s potential for hydel and solar projects to alleviate energy crises. He aligned with Nawaz’s development-focused campaign, reiterating the PML-N’s track record in infrastructure and public welfare.
