Local Government Elections return to Gilgit Baltistan after 21 years
Gilgit-Baltistan is set to hold local government elections on August 2, 2026, Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan announced on Wednesday. The announcement marks a historic milestone for the region, as these elections will be the first local government polls to take place in Gilgit-Baltistan in 22 years.
“Local government elections are being held in Gilgit-Baltistan after 22 years.”
— Raja Shahbaz Khan, Chief Election Commissioner, Gilgit-Baltistan
According to the Chief Election Commissioner, aspiring candidates can submit their nomination papers beginning June 9, with the submission window remaining open until June 15. The six-day nomination period gives candidates and their supporters a narrow but clearly defined timeframe to file the required documentation with election authorities.
The holding of local government elections after more than two decades is expected to be a watershed moment for democratic governance in Gilgit-Baltistan. Local governments serve as the most direct layer of representation for citizens, overseeing municipal services, development projects, and community-level administration. Their prolonged absence has been a point of concern among civil society groups and residents who have repeatedly called for grassroots democratic institutions to be restored.
Key dates at a glance
June 9, 2026
Nomination papers submission window opens
June 15, 2026
Last date for submission of nomination papers
August 2, 2026
Local government elections held across Gilgit-Baltistan
Further details regarding constituency delimitation, candidate scrutiny dates, and campaign regulations are expected to be released by the Election Commission in the coming days. GB Tribune will continue to provide full coverage of all developments related to the Gilgit-Baltistan local government elections 2026.