Islamabad: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, Amir Muqam, has stated that his party and its allies had the option of forming a government in Gilgit-Baltistan with the support of other political groups and independent candidates. However, in the interest of democratic principles, they chose to invite the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which emerged as the largest party, to form the government.

Speaking during a session of the National Assembly, Amir Muqam said that the recent elections in Gilgit-Baltistan were conducted in a transparent, free, and impartial manner. He described the polls as a significant milestone for the region, emphasizing that voters were able to exercise their democratic rights without undue interference.

The minister noted that several political options were available after the election results were announced. According to him, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and its allies could have collaborated with independent members and other political forces to secure a governing majority. Nevertheless, the federal government decided to respect the electoral mandate and give the PPP, which secured the highest number of seats, the opportunity to form the next government in the region.

Amir Muqam said that this decision reflected the government’s commitment to democratic values and political stability. He added that respecting the wishes of voters and allowing the largest party to take the lead in government formation would strengthen democratic traditions in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed confidence that his party would successfully form the government in Gilgit-Baltistan. Speaking to reporters at Parliament House, Bilawal said that consultations with party leaders and newly