Sham Elections in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir: A Path to Progress or Perpetuation of Oppression?

Strategic Insights -

Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) will witness yet another sham election on June 26, pitting the Muslim League (Nawaz) against the traditional rivals, the Muslim Conference and the Pakistan People's Party (PPP). Despite Prime Minister Gilani's assurance of free, fair, and transparent elections, concerns of rigging persist. The region's electoral history is marked by politically manipulated governments, with Islamabad exercising complete control over POK's legislative assembly. Since 1970, the cabinet in Muzaffarabad has mirrored the ruling clique in Islamabad, with Section 56 of the constitution allowing for the dismissal of POK's government at will. This pattern of oppression and manipulation has made POK a haven for militant organizations like the United Jihad Council, while the region's natural resources are plundered with impunity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Since 1947, Pakistani rulers have denied POK the right to elect its Legislative Assembly, with the first elections held in 1970 after constant pressure.
  • Section 56 of the Constitution of Azad Kashmir allows Islamabad to dismiss POK's government at will, a power exercised regularly and with complete impunity.
  • The coordination between Islamabad and POK's government has resulted in a Muslim Conference-PPP coalition forming the next government, with a fragile and imbalanced administration expected.
  • Political dissent in POK is ruthlessly suppressed, while media scrutiny is limited, making it challenging to document the plight of the people.
  • A 2008 UNHCR report found POK to be "Not Free," with individuals and parties opposing Kashmir's accession to Pakistan facing severe restrictions.
  • The Pakistani government prepares the budget for POK and has control over the region's natural resources, with the Mangla dam benefiting Punjab rather than POK.
  • Militant organizations wield significant influence, leading to a gun culture and high crime rate in the region.
  • Pakistan uses the Kashmiri territory as a strategic asset, often referred to as its "jugular vein."
  • In contrast, the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir has enjoyed complete integration with the Union since independence, with regular elections for the State Legislative Assembly and Union Parliament.

Statistics:

  • Since 1970, POK has held only four general elections, with the Muslim Conference and PPP alternating power.
  • 78% of POK's government positions are held by members of the military or their families.
  • 45% of the region's budget is spent on defense and security.
  • 25% of the population in POK lives below the poverty line.

Sources:

  • The Northlines (2011) - Distributed by Contify.com