ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has rejected the allegations levelled by Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, describing them as baseless and stating that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)’s victory in the second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) local government elections indicates the confidence of the people in the party’s performance.
Tarar said the PML-N had secured a clear majority in the second phase of the AJK elections, adding that the party’s success had become difficult for its political opponents to accept.
He said the people of Azad Kashmir actively participated in the electoral process and exercised their democratic right in a peaceful manner. According to the minister, voters made their decision on the basis of the PML-N’s record of public service, development initiatives, and governance.
“The public voted in favour of performance and development,” Tarar said, adding that the election campaign witnessed vibrant political activity, providing all parties with an opportunity to present their manifestos and connect with voters.
The information minister also referred to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s congratulatory message to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) following its success in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections, describing it as a positive democratic tradition. He said political parties should demonstrate tolerance, patience, and respect for democratic norms regardless of electoral outcomes.
Tarar urged political leaders to avoid making unsubstantiated allegations and instead present evidence to support any claims regarding the electoral process.
He stressed that constructive political discourse strengthens democratic institutions, while unfounded accusations risk undermining public confidence in elections.
He further said that political rivalry and criticism are natural elements of democracy but should remain within the framework of responsible political conduct.
He called on all stakeholders to respect the mandate given by the people and accept the results in the spirit of democratic values.
Tarar said the PML-N leadership has consistently placed the development and welfare of Azad Jammu and Kashmir among its priorities.
He maintained that the election results indicated the trust reposed by the people in the party’s vision and governance.
The minister concluded by reasserting that democratic processes should be strengthened through mutual respect, transparency, and adherence to constitutional principles, focusing on that political differences should be addressed through dialogue and evidence rather than allegations.
