GB election preparations completed as polling materials handed over to returning officers

WEB DESK: Preparations for the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections have been completed, with polling materials formally handed over to returning officers across the region, according to the Election Commission.

The commission said all logistical arrangements had been finalised to ensure the smooth conduct of polling in the 24 constituencies of Gilgit-Baltistan. Polling is scheduled to take place from 8am to 5pm.

Over 958,000 registered voters

According to the Election Commission, a total of 958,000 voters are registered across the 24 constituencies. To facilitate the voting process, 1,389 polling stations and 2,450 polling booths have been established throughout the region.

Of the total polling booths, 1,112 have been designated for women and 1,268 for men, while 68 combined polling booths have also been set up in various constituencies.

More than 400 candidates in the field

The Election Commission said that 404 candidates will contest the elections across the 24 constituencies. Among them are 396 male and eight female candidates.

A significant number of contestants are running as independents, with 266 candidates entering the race without affiliation to any political party.

Election authorities said all necessary arrangements had been completed and election staff deployed to ensure an orderly and transparent voting process across Gilgit-Baltistan.