AJK Election Commission imposes strict code of conduct for General Elections 2026

Muzaffarabad:  The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission has issued a code of conduct for the General Elections 2026, imposing a series of restrictions to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

According to a spokesperson, the new directives ban the appointment, transfer, and creation of new posts without prior approval of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission. In case of unavoidable circumstances, prior consent from the Commission will be mandatory.

Ministers and members of the assembly have been prohibited from distributing public funds, including development funds, Zakat, Social Action Programme funds, and Bait-ul-Mal allocations. The distribution of government resources such as electricity poles, pipes, commercial and construction timber, and forest trees has also been banned.

The notification further restricts the launch of new development schemes across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, although routine development work through relevant departments will continue.

Candidates and their supporters have been barred from inaugurating development projects, while government employees not assigned to law and order duties are prohibited from participating in political rallies or organizing such events. The use of official resources, including government vehicles, has also been restricted.

Additionally, all types of allotments and leases in departments such as the Board of Revenue and development authorities, including Mangla Dam Housing Authority, have been suspended.

The Election Commission warned that violations of the code of conduct will result in disciplinary action, which may include suspension of government officials or disqualification of electoral candidates upon credible complaints.