The PML-N election campaign in Gilgit-Baltistan gained momentum as former prime minister Nawaz Sharif visited Gilgit and reaffirmed his commitment to development in the region ahead of the upcoming elections.
Addressing a public gathering in Gilgit-Baltistan Gilgit-Baltistan, Nawaz Sharif said his focus remained on public service and development rather than electoral gains. He said he would continue supporting infrastructure and public welfare projects regardless of political outcomes.
He said his political approach was based on performance and delivery, adding that he preferred public trust earned through development work rather than criticism of opponents. He stressed that improving public facilities and living standards would remain his priority in the region.
The former premier is visiting Gilgit as part of the PML-N election campaign in Gilgit-Baltistan, where the party is preparing for the general elections scheduled for June 7 after a four-month delay due to harsh winter conditions.
During his visit, Nawaz Sharif is expected to meet party candidates and review election preparations. He was accompanied by senior party and government leaders, including Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Sanaullah, Marriyum Aurangzeb, Pervaiz Rasheed, Anusha Rahman, and Kazim Ali Pirzada.
Party officials said Nawaz Sharif was received in Gilgit by Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam, along with other local leaders, including former chief minister Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman and retired Captain Mohammad Safdar.
The visit comes after the party announced that the Election Commission of Gilgit-Baltistan had issued a no-objection certificate allowing Nawaz Sharif to lead campaign activities in the region.
Although elected to the National Assembly in 2024, Nawaz Sharif has largely stayed out of day-to-day politics but continues to play a key role in party strategy and is seen as a mentor to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Earlier, Nawaz Sharif had pledged that a PML-N government would prioritise development projects, infrastructure upgrades, and improved public services across Gilgit-Baltistan.
Meanwhile, senior PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique also highlighted the need for constitutional clarity for Gilgit-Baltistan. Speaking in Skardu, he said the region’s political future required serious national discussion alongside Kashmir-related issues.
He also called for a fair share for Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir in national financial allocations. Rafique added that long-term planning in areas such as roads, internet access, hydropower, and air connectivity was essential for sustainable growth.
