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WNAM REPORT: Former President Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Sardar Masood Khan, on Monday stressed that the democratic process must continue in AJK, saying sustainable peace and political stability could be achieved through dialogue, constitutional mechanisms and democratic engagement.
Commenting on the second phase of AJK Legislative Assembly elections, Masood Khan, who had also served as Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China and the United Nations, emphasized that the Election Commission’s decision to proceed with the electoral process, despite extraordinary circumstances, was essential to preserving constitutional continuity and democratic governance.
Commenting on the debate surrounding voter turnout and allegations of electoral irregularities, Ambassador Khan maintained that official election data must remain the primary point of reference until any disputes were examined through the constitutional and legal mechanisms available under the Election Commission.
Khan urged all political stakeholders to resolve their differences through dialogue and institutional engagement.
He noted that while political parties had raised concerns regarding the conduct of the elections, such issues should be addressed through established legal procedures instead of public confrontation.
Ambassador Masood Khan urged all political leaders to rise above partisan considerations and work collectively to safeguard democratic institutions, constitutional order and social harmony in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He expressed confidence that continued dialogue, responsible political conduct and adherence to democratic norms would help restore public confidence and strengthen the region’s political stability.