ISLAMABAD: Four independent candidates who recently won seats in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly have officially joined the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), marking a significant development in the region’s evolving political landscape.

The announcement was made following a meeting between the newly elected lawmakers and Federal Minister Aleem Khan, a senior leader of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party. During the meeting, the independent members formally declared their decision to become part of the party.

According to party sources, the lawmakers who joined IPP include:

• Muhammad Dilpazir from GBA-15 Diamer
• Aman Ali from GBA-21 Ghizer-III
• Anwar Ali from GBA-23 Ghanche
• Asad Shafiq from GBA-24 Ghanche-III

Their inclusion is expected to strengthen the party’s position in the newly elected Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly and enhance its influence in regional politics.

Speaking after the announcement, Muhammad Dilpazir said that all four independent candidates had collectively decided to join the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party as a group. He described the move as a strategic decision aimed at ensuring greater political coordination and representation within the assembly.

Dilpazir further revealed that discussions are ongoing with other independent legislators as well as members associated with the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM). He expressed optimism that additional lawmakers may also choose to join the party in the coming weeks.

“We have entered the party as a united group and are in contact with other independent members and MWM representatives,” Dilpazir stated. “We will invite more elected members to join us so that the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party can emerge as the second-largest political force in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.”

The development comes at a crucial time as political parties in Gilgit-Baltistan continue efforts to build alliances and strengthen their positions following the recent elections. In parliamentary systems, the support of independent candidates often plays an important role in shaping legislative majorities, government formation, and opposition strength.

Political analysts believe that the decision by four successful independents to join a single party could influence future coalition-building efforts in the region. Their move may encourage other independent lawmakers to align themselves with established political parties to gain greater influence in policymaking and development initiatives.

The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party, which has been seeking to expand its political footprint across the country, views the inclusion of the newly elected members as an important step toward strengthening its presence in Gilgit-Baltistan. Party leaders have indicated that they intend to play an active role in regional development, governance, and representation of local concerns.

Gilgit-Baltistan holds strategic significance due to its geographic location, natural resources, tourism potential, and role in regional connectivity projects. As a result, political developments in the region often attract considerable attention from national political parties.

Observers note that the coming weeks will be critical in determining the final balance of power in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, as parties continue negotiations with independents and smaller political groups. Any further shifts in political affiliations could significantly affect the composition of the assembly and the formation of alliances.

The decision of the four independent winners to join the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party signals an effort to consolidate political influence and could reshape opposition and government dynamics within the regional legislature.

With discussions reportedly continuing with additional lawmakers, the party hopes to expand its representation further and establish itself as a major force in Gilgit-Baltistan politics in the years ahead.