Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Sunday urged voters in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to support his party in the July 27 Legislative Assembly elections, saying a PPP-led government would protect public rights, safeguard natural resources and create economic opportunities across the region.

Addressing an election rally at Sikandar Hayat Stadium, Bilawal said he was confident the PPP would secure a strong mandate in the polls.

He praised PPP Azad Kashmir President Chaudhry Muhammad Yasin for his leadership and said the party had rewarded loyal workers with election tickets. Bilawal said PPP workers had remained committed despite political pressure and legal challenges, describing the party’s history as one rooted in sacrifices for democracy and constitutional rights.

Outlining the party’s election platform, Bilawal pledged to protect the rights, land and natural resources of the people of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan while continuing to raise the Kashmir issue at international forums.

He also called for greater representation for Azad Kashmir in national institutions, including the Council of Common Interests (CCI) and the National Finance Commission (NFC), saying the region should have a stronger role in decisions on resource allocation and development.

Bilawal identified youth employment as a key priority, promising initiatives to create jobs and expand economic opportunities.

He reiterated his call for the establishment of a Truth Commission to investigate recent incidents in Azad Kashmir, urged the restoration of internet and communication services, and called on the federal government to address concerns arising from recent remarks about Kashmiris.

Bilawal said the July 27 elections would be crucial for the future of Azad Kashmir and urged voters to support PPP candidates.