Gilgit, May 13, 2026: Details of candidates for the upcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan have been finalized, with a total of 403 candidates set to contest across 24 constituencies.
Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly Elections Delayed
According to official data, competition is expected to be intense in several constituencies, particularly in urban areas. The highest number of candidates—40—are contesting from GBA-2 Gilgit-II, making it the most competitive seat.
Other key constituencies include GBA-1 Gilgit-I with 23 candidates, GBA-3 Gilgit-III with 22 candidates, and GBA-6 Hunza where 27 candidates are in the race.
In Nagar, both constituencies—GBA-4 Nagar-I and GBA-5 Nagar-II—have 22 and 23 candidates respectively.
In the Skardu region, GBA-7 Skardu-I has 13 candidates, GBA-8 Skardu-II has 14, GBA-9 Skardu-III has 12, and GBA-10 Skardu-IV has 13 candidates contesting.
Meanwhile, GBA-11 Kharmang has 11 candidates and GBA-12 Shigar has 10.
From Astore, GBA-13 Astore-I has 13 candidates, while GBA-14 Astore-II stands out with 33 candidates.
Caretaker Cabinet Announced for Gilgit-Baltistan
In Diamer, four constituencies (GBA-15 to GBA-18) collectively feature a strong field, ranging from 10 to 20 candidates each.
In Ghizer, GBA-19 has 9 candidates, GBA-20 has 17, and GBA-21 has 20 candidates. The lowest number of contestants is in GBA-24 Ghanche-III, where only 6 candidates are in the race.
The elections are expected to be closely watched, as political parties and independent candidates compete for influence in the strategically significant region.
Observers note that the large number of candidates reflects strong political engagement and growing democratic participation in Gilgit-Baltistan.