Kathmandu, Dec 22: With the election to the House of Representatives (HoR) scheduled for March 5 approaching, the government has intensified preparations for the polls.
The Election Commission of Nepal (EC), political parties, and security agencies have also directed their attention toward the HoR election, according to officials and observers.
A total of 114 political parties have been registered with the EC to participate in the election. Meanwhile, the government has approved an integrated election security plan, a key initiative aimed at ensuring the polls are conducted in a free, fair, and fearless environment.
Senior Vice-Chairperson of the Loktantrik Samajwadi Party Nepal, Laxman Lal Karn, said his party has stepped up preparations, including training party cadres and holding meetings with voters.
“There is no alternative to the election to end political uncertainty and safeguard the constitution in the post–Gen-Z movement period,” Karn said.
As part of the preparations, political parties have begun collecting recommendations for potential candidates from various constituencies.
Members of the younger generation who have been advocating for transformation within political parties have also expressed enthusiasm about participating in the upcoming election.
Sandip Khatri, a permanent resident of Palungtar Municipality–2 in Gorkha district, echoed similar views, stressing the importance of holding the election on time. He said the poll is essential to concluding the country’s current phase of political transition.
“In the absence of parliament, there is a risk of undue maneuvering in the country. The election should be held to thwart such attempts. We are eagerly awaiting the polls,” Khatri said.
To ensure smooth election management, the government has allocated Rs 6.73 billion to the Election Commission.
In a message marking the completion of 100 days of the new government, Prime Minister Sushila Karki described the upcoming election as an initiative to strengthen democracy and ensure good governance.
Addressing the Gen-Z population, Prime Minister Karki said that ballot papers provide answers to questions raised on the streets. “The state will ensure your vote,” she assured.
The Election Commission has stated that all responsibilities under its mandate are being carried out in line with the election calendar.
EC Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai said the deadline for political parties to submit their closed lists of candidates under the proportional representation (PR) electoral system is approaching. He added that preparations are underway to print PR ballot papers from December 30.
At present, the EC is collecting details of officials to be appointed as chief returning officers and returning officers. Following this process, appointments will be made and their offices established. #nepal #election rrs
(Narayan Neupane)
