MURREE, 15 August, 2026 (Nosheen): Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has pledged to transform Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) along the lines of Punjab’s development model, while calling for merit-based appointments in the regional cabinet.Addressing a gathering in Murree, Nawaz Sharif said political differences should not turn into personal enmity, stressing that he had always treated his political opponents with respect.He said political rivalry should remain within democratic limits and expressed the view that the political environment in Azad Kashmir had traditionally remained positive.Congratulating the candidates who won the Azad Kashmir elections, Nawaz Sharif said the PML-N had already secured a majority in the first two phases of the electoral process. He also appreciated the efforts of candidates who could not secure victory.

The PML-N president said the party would face disappointment among the people if it failed to deliver on its promises in Azad Kashmir. He noted that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had previously governed the region and emphasised that the welfare and development of the people of Azad Kashmir would remain the PML-N’s top priority.Nawaz Sharif said the country was facing serious challenges when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assumed office. He credited Shehbaz Sharif with initiating the development process in Punjab, which was subsequently carried forward by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.“The people of Azad Kashmir are looking towards Punjab’s development,” Nawaz Sharif said, emphasising the need to replicate successful development initiatives in the region.He further called for merit and competence to be prioritised in the formation of the AJK cabinet, saying capable individuals should be given opportunities to serve the people and contribute to the region’s progress.