Government sources indicate a probable postponement until June and July due to bad weather.
Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission. Photo: ecgb.gov.pk/
Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday announced January 24, 2026 as the voting date for the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, although government sources say the vote is likely to be postponed until June or July due to harsh winter conditions.
According to an official notification issued under Article 48-A (1) of the Gilgit-Baltistan Order, 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 electoral commissioner (CEC) to formalize procedures before any rescheduling could take place. The CEC is expected to announce a revised election date in due course.
The interim structure of Gilgit-Baltistan was formed on November 25, following the completion of the five-year term of the Gulbar Khan-led government. Acting Chief Minister of Justice (retd), 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, must hold elections within 60 days of the formation of the caretaker government.
Meanwhile, the Gilgit-Baltistan caretaker cabinet is yet to be notified by the caretaker prime minister.
