Kathmandu, Nov. 3: Prime Minister Sushila Karki has reiterated her government’s commitment to holding the elections to the House of Representatives on March 5, 2026, as scheduled.
During a meeting with the chief ministers of all seven provinces at Baluwatar on Sunday, the provincial leaders pledged their full cooperation in creating a favorable environment for the upcoming polls. They also commended the Prime Minister’s ongoing efforts to engage in dialogue and consultation with political parties and relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth electoral process.
According to a statement issued by the PM’s Office, the chief ministers expressed confidence that such initiatives would help foster a positive and peaceful atmosphere for the elections. They emphasized that maintaining peace and security would be a key challenge and urged all levels of government to show strong commitment to this goal.
They stressed that mutual coordination, cooperation, and coexistence among federal, provincial, and local governments would be crucial for successfully conducting the elections on time.
Karnali Province Chief Minister Yam Lal Kandel stated, “I represent the CPN-UML. We are not against elections, but the federal government must take the lead in ensuring a conducive environment for the polls while recognizing our role. The only way forward now is through elections.”
The chief ministers also proposed that the federal government introduce a special reconstruction package for structures damaged during the Gen-Z movement.
They further raised concerns over the federal government’s recent circular on expenditure reduction, which they said could interfere with provincial jurisdictions. The directive restricts ministries from hiring more assistants or advisers than allowed by law and requires all projects exceeding Rs. 1 million to undergo competitive bidding.
Some provincial leaders expressed suspicion that, while the government formed after the Gen-Z movement had failed to bring judicial and administrative reforms, the circular seemed primarily aimed at curbing the facilities of provincial office bearers.
Madhes Province Chief Minister Jitendra Prasad Sonar urged the federal government to announce relief measures for farmers hit by droughts and heavy rains.
The meeting also saw concerns over the decision to cut electricity lines of industries that have not paid dues for dedicated feeders, as it could harm industrial operations, workers’ livelihoods, and government revenue.
Prime Minister Karki assured that the government is fully committed to conducting the elections on time. “As political parties are the guardians of this system, the government is eager to hold elections soon and hand over power to a party-based administration,” she said.
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