ABBOTTABAD, Sept 11: The candidate of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) for the post of district nazim, Javed Abbasi, has gained support of Al Khidmat Group and the People’s Party Parliamentarians, setting the stage for a close contest with Baba Haider Zaman, who is backed by the PML.

The PML-N candidate is also contacting small local groups and other member parties of the Alliance for the Restoration of Democracy.

PML-backed candidates have been elected nazims of 39 of the 51 union councils in the district but a tough contest is expected for the district nazim’s post.

Former chief minister Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan is playing an important role in the PML-N’s election campaign.

The PML has announced support for Saifullah Khan Jadoon, son of federal Minister Amanullah Khan Jadoon, for the post of Tehsil nazim, while the ARD and its allies are likely to support Pir Khan of Al Khidmat Group.