National ( The cow news digital ) The battle to form the next government in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) enters its decisive stage as polling for the third and final phase of the general elections takes place across the Poonch division on August 10, 2026.
Following the initial two rounds of voting, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has established a significant lead over its primary rival, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). PML-N currently tops the standings with 24 total seats, having secured 9 constituencies in the first phase held in the Mirpur division on July 27, followed by 5 direct general seats and 10 refugee seats during the second phase on August 2. In contrast, the PPP stands in second place with 10 seats after securing 4 seats in Mirpur, 4 in Muzaffarabad, and 2 refugee seats.
With 11 general assembly seats up for grabs across four districts in the Poonch division, the upcoming round will prove critical in determining whether PML-N secures a clear governing majority or if PPP can narrow the gap. Over 1.15 million registered voters across Rawalakot, Bagh, Haveli, Poonch, and Sudhanoti are expected to cast their ballots, choosing from a field of 208 candidates.
The contest features intense local rivalries, with 82 candidates competing across four constituencies in Bagh and Haveli (LA-14 through LA-17), while 126 candidates are vying for seven seats covering Poonch, Rawalakot, and Sudhanoti (LA-18 to LA-24). Political analysts note that every vote in Poonch carries the potential to tilt the final balance of power in the AJK Legislative Assembly.
