Two political activists were killed in an exchange of fire between supporters of two major Pakistani parties on Sunday during a tight race to elect the regional Assembly in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, police said.

Supporters of the ruling Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf of Prime Minister Imran Khan and Opposition Pakistan People’s Party clashed in one constituency, leading to the deaths, police officer Mohammad Shabir said. It was not immediately clear which party they backed.

The violence mars the latest election test for Imran, who has faced growing criticism since his 2018 election win over his handling of the economy and competence to deliver on his election promises.

Typically, the PoK vote has been won by the country’s ruling party. Analysts said this race was tighter than usual.