Government sources indicate likely postponement to June and July due to bad weather
Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission. Photo: ecgb.gov.pk/
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday announced January 24, 2026 as the polling date for the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, although government sources say the vote is likely to be postponed to June or July due to harsh winter conditions.
According to an official notification issued under Section 48-A (1) of the Gilgit-Baltistan Ordinance 2018 and Section 57 (1) of the Election Act, 2017, polling across the region will be held on the scheduled date.
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Sources explained that presidential approval was a necessary procedural step sought by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to formalize procedures before a rescheduling could take place. The CEC is expected to announce a revised poll date in due course.
The Gilgit-Baltistan caretaker formation was formed on November 25, after the five-year term of the Gulbar Khan-led government ended. Acting Chief Minister retired Justice Yar Mohammad was sworn in the same month.
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According to the law, the Election Commission of Pakistan, with the support of the caretaker government, is required to hold elections within 60 days of the formation of the caretaker government.
Besides, the caretaker cabinet of Gilgit-Baltistan is yet to be informed by the caretaker chief minister.
