LAHORE, Aug 12 - Pakistan's ruling party appeared poised to win a majority in Pakistan-administered Kashmir's local assembly, even as some of the most closely watched constituencies had yet to vote amid deadly unrest.

The Pakistan Muslim League (N) had secured 25 seats in the 53-seat assembly as of Wednesday, but was widely expected by analysts to win more constituencies in at least two further rounds of voting, and be granted additional reserved seats.

The elections had been scheduled to be held in three rounds between late July and August 10. But mounting security concerns led to the postponement of voting in seven constituencies from Monday to a date yet to be determined.

Irregularities on Monday also prompted a separate rerun of voting in 23 polling stations in two constituencies that is scheduled for Saturday.

The Kashmir vote has been marred by deadly clashes that have prompted road closures and an internet blackout.

CHALLENGES AHEAD

The unrest is set to overshadow the formation of the region's next government, analysts said.

The PML-N has benefited from a longstanding rule that mandates 12 seats for constituencies representing what the regional constitution defines as refugees from Indian-administered Kashmir. These seats — which were largely won by the PML-N — have become a flashpoint in Pakistani politics over the last few months. Kashmiri protesters say the seats have too often been filled by people living elsewhere in Pakistan who have little regard for the region's economic struggles.

The PML-N did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Following the first round of voting in late July, a group of protesters — the Joint Awami Action Committee — said more than 30 people had been killed around one town, Rawalakot, in clashes with security forces within two days. Pakistani authorities denied that death toll and characterised the protesters as India-backed militants.

Reuters was unable to indepen...