Ch. Latif Akbar: Free and Fair Elections in Azad Kashmir
Senior Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader and former Opposition Leader in Azad Kashmir Assembly, Chaudhry Latif Akbar, has emphasized that the upcoming elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir must be free, fair, and transparent to restore public trust in the political process.
In an exclusive interview, Akbar discussed shifting political loyalties ahead of the polls, highlighted his party’s performance in government, and warned against the growing influence of money in politics.
Political Realignments Before Elections
According to Ch. Latif Akbar, political maneuvering is a natural process before elections. Politicians tend to move to parties where they find space. However, he stressed that ultimately, people support the party that has delivered for the public.
“Whichever political party has served the people better, more people will go with it,” he stated.
He recalled the PPP government (2011–2016) under which three new cities, five universities, three medical colleges, and key infrastructure projects including major roads were developed in Azad Kashmir.
Criticism of Money Politics in Azad Kashmir
Ch. Latif Akbar strongly criticized the culture of money in politics, claiming that PPP never relied on financial influence to gain votes.
“Politics of money in Azad Kashmir was introduced by PML-N in 2016, and then PTI in 2021. PPP has never played politics on the basis of money, and neither have I,” he said.
He stressed that genuine politics in Azad Kashmir has always been about direct contact with the people through participation in community events, funerals, and weddings, rather than financial transactions.
PTI’s Decline and Registration Issues
Akbar declared that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is “finished” in Azad Kashmir, splitting into forward blocs. He also highlighted a legal flaw, claiming PTI has yet to be properly registered with the Election Commission.
“Until now they have not been able to get their party registered. A political party which is not registered cannot contest elections,” he said.
Joint Awami Action Committee and Public Movements
He acknowledged the rise of the Joint Awami Action Committee, saying it filled a governance vacuum left by mainstream parties. However, he argued that public movements and electoral politics are two different dynamics.
“In general elections, kinship, community, and local connections matter more than temporary movements,” Akbar explained.
Call for Stronger Institutions and Electoral Reforms
Ch. Latif Akbar expressed concerns over flaws in local bodies elections due to weak legislation and lack of financial and administrative powers for representatives.
He revealed that he had written to the Election Commission, urging constitutional amendments to strengthen local governments.
“Without financial and administrative powers, these institutions are meaningless. You can create touts, but you cannot produce leadership,” he noted.
Kashmir Issue: Sacrifices and International Diplomacy
Touching on the Kashmir conflict, Akbar praised the sacrifices of Kashmiri people, comparing their struggle to Palestine. He thanked Pakistan’s military and political leadership for raising the Kashmir issue globally.
He credited Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s diplomatic efforts and Pakistan’s firm stance against Indian aggression for restoring Pakistan’s international image.
Coalition Government and Delayed Decisions
While acknowledging some achievements of the current coalition government in Azad Kashmir, Akbar criticized its slow decision-making.
“Because decisions were not made on time, many issues became delayed and confusion was created,” he remarked.
Demand for Transparent Elections
Concluding, Ch. Latif Akbar stressed that only transparent elections can strengthen democracy in Azad Kashmir and set an example for Occupied Kashmir and the wider world.
“If elections are non-transparent, the demand of the people will gain more strength. Free and fair elections are the only way forward,” he said.
