Shumaila Rubab
Reiterates long-standing principled stance, says it will neither become a political party nor take part in any election campaign for or against any political or religious group or individual
Islamabad: The All Parties Hurriyat Conference Azad jammu and Kashmir chapter (APHC-AJK) has reaffirmed that it will remain completely detached from the electoral process in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Pakistan, maintaining its long-standing principled position.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting held in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Convener Ghulam Muhammad Safi, with representatives of all constituent parties in attendance. The meeting reviewed the prevailing political situation in the region and discussed future strategy regarding the Kashmir issue.
According to a statement issued after the meeting, participants unanimously decided that the Hurriyat Conference would neither transform itself into a political party nor participate in any election campaign in support of or opposition to any political or religious group or individual.
The forum emphasized that the Kashmir issue is a matter of national identity, ideology, and the internationally recognized right to self-determination. It stated that this issue cannot be subordinated to electoral politics or short-term political interests.
Participants also stressed the importance of uniting political and religious leadership, along with the public in Pakistan and AJK, on the Kashmir cause. They noted that Hurriyat’s neutral and principled stance is essential to maintaining its credibility as a representative voice of the Kashmiri people.
Reaffirming its commitment to the legacy of Kashmiri martyrs, the leadership stated that it carries a historic responsibility to continue their mission and intensify efforts for achieving the right to self-determination through peaceful and internationally recognized means.
It was further decided that Hurriyat delegations will establish formal contact with major political and religious parties in Pakistan and AJK. The aim will be to encourage inclusion of key aspects of the Kashmir issue in their election manifestos.
The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge to continue efforts at political, diplomatic, and public levels to highlight the Kashmir issue globally and to pursue a more coordinated and effective strategy in the future.