PML-N’s Barrister Iftikhar Gilani has been elected the 17th Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) after securing a majority in the AJK Legislative Assembly on Friday.
Gilani received 30 votes, defeating his rival, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate Sardar Mukhtar Ahmed Khan, who secured 14 votes.
A total of 44 lawmakers participated in the election, with the assembly speaker formally announcing the result after voting concluded.
Iftikhar Gilani Secures Majority
The election result gives Barrister Iftikhar Gilani the opportunity to lead the AJK government and places the PML-N in a position of leadership within the territory’s administration.
Gilani secured more than twice the number of votes received by his PPP rival, reflecting sufficient support within the Legislative Assembly to form the government.
The assembly speaker formally announced the result following the completion of the voting process.
Previous Government Experience
The newly elected AJK prime minister is not new to government affairs. Iftikhar Gilani previously served as AJK’s education minister, giving him experience in both legislative and executive responsibilities.
His previous role in the education sector also provides him with experience in dealing with government departments, policy matters and public administration.
His election as prime minister now marks a significant step forward in his political career.
PML-N Takes Leadership of AJK Government
Gilani’s election gives the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leadership of the AJK government.
The development is politically significant for the party, as control of the government provides an opportunity to influence policy priorities, development programmes and administrative decisions across Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The new administration will be expected to focus on governance, development and public welfare while addressing the region’s economic and social priorities.
Election Results at a Glance
| Candidate | Party | Votes |
|---|---|---|
| Barrister Iftikhar Gilani | PML-N | 30 |
| Sardar Mukhtar Ahmed Khan | PPP | 14 |
| Total lawmakers voting | — | 44 |
What Comes Next?
Following his election, the new AJK prime minister will face the task of forming and managing an effective government.
Key areas likely to remain important for the administration include economic development, infrastructure, education, healthcare, employment and public services.
The government will also have to work with the AJK Legislative Assembly and relevant institutions to implement its policy agenda.
A New Chapter for Gilani
Iftikhar Gilani’s election represents a major milestone in his political career. Having previously served as education minister, he now takes on the highest executive position in the AJK government.
His ability to translate political support into effective governance will be closely watched as the new administration begins its tenure.
Conclusion
Barrister Iftikhar Gilani has been elected the 17th Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, securing 30 votes against PPP candidate Sardar Mukhtar Ahmed Khan’s 14.
With 44 lawmakers participating, the result establishes a clear majority for Gilani and gives PML-N leadership of the AJK government.
The new prime minister will now be responsible for guiding the administration and addressing the region’s key governance and development challenges.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and journalistic purposes and is based on publicly available reports. Political developments and official details may be updated as further information becomes available.
