As Rawalakot remains the epicenter of unrest, the peaceful completion of the electoral process hangs in the balance. The post-election landscape will be critical for both AJK and Pakistan; unlike past polls since 1970, this vote has fractured the electorate along constitutional, socio-political and economic lines. Consequently, it is vital that complex issues like the future of 'contested' refugee seats are resolved with utmost solemnity, without undermining the struggle for independence in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. It is worth noting that the 38-point demand list put forward by JAAC enjoys mass support; therefore, whichever party forms the next government in AJK must address it with complete sincerity. Ensuring that the upcoming ballot is both popular and peaceful remains a major challenge for Muzaffarabad and Islamabad.