03/08/2026
ITTEHAD NEWS | OPINION
LA-38 Refugee Seat Election Sends a Strong Political Message to Gujrat
By: Mudassar Cheema
GUJRAT: The election for AJK Refugee Constituency LA-38 (Jammu-05) has delivered a message that extends far beyond Azad Jammu & Kashmir. The outcome has also reshaped the political narrative in District Gujrat, reaffirming a timeless democratic principle: no political stronghold remains unconquerable forever, and the people's verdict is ultimately more powerful than political claims.
The convincing first-time victory of Pakistan Muslim League (N) candidate Chaudhry Zeeshan Younas was more than an individual triumph. It reflected disciplined campaign planning, organizational unity, and sustained public engagement throughout the election period.
Local party leadership played a significant role in securing the victory. Chaudhry Abid Raza, the Nawabzada brothers, and their associates remained actively involved in mobilizing workers and strengthening the campaign. Among the most prominent figures was Nawabzada Haider Mehdi, who led an extensive door-to-door campaign across all three districts, reached out to dissatisfied workers, and built connections with influential political circles. His efforts were carried out under the guidance and support of Nawabzada Ghazanfar Ali Gul and Nawabzada Tahir-ul-Mulk.
Several other political leaders and workers also contributed actively to the campaign, including Chaudhry Naseer Abbas Sadh, Malik Hanif Awan, Haji Nasir Mahmood, Moin Nawaz Warraich, Mian Tariq Mahmood, Chaudhry Owais Doiyan, Chaudhry Waseem Bahadur Advocate, Chairman Chaudhry Kashif Mahmood Fatehpur, and Chaudhry Ali Warraich.
Political observers believe Nawabzada Haider Mehdi's energetic campaign reflected the early political style of Nawabzada Ghazanfar Ali Gul, who first entered the Punjab Assembly in 1988 before being elected to the National Assembly in 1993. According to the family, the Nawabzada political legacy in District Gujrat spans nearly two centuries.
On the other hand, Pakistan Muslim League (Q) candidate Chaudhry Akbar Ibrahim, a three-time successful candidate in the past, was unable to retain the seat. Analysts suggest that internal party differences and the absence of several influential leaders from the campaign affected the party's electoral performance. Nevertheless, Chaudhry Akbar Ibrahim remained a strong competitor, reminding observers that victory and defeat are both natural elements of democratic politics.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the election was the atmosphere at polling stations. Leaders from rival political parties were seen greeting one another warmly, shaking hands, and exchanging views with mutual respect. Outside some polling stations, however, emotional supporters occasionally became involved in verbal disputes.
This contrast offers an important lesson for the public. Politics should remain a contest of ideas—not a source of personal hostility. Citizens are free to support whichever candidate they choose, but political differences should never damage friendships, family ties, or community relationships. Elections come and go, while neighbours, relatives, and friends remain part of everyday life. Politicians often sit together after elections; therefore, the public should also promote tolerance, respect, and democratic values.
The LA-38 election has once again demonstrated that public service, consistent hard work, organizational unity, and direct engagement with voters remain the true foundations of political success.
