Polls main responsibility of interim government: Minister Aryal

BY A STAFF REPORTER,Kathmandu, Sep. 19: Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has reaffirmed that the primary responsibility of the current interim government is to conduct the parliamentary elections on March 5, 2026. 

Addressing Election Commission officials and journalists at the Commission's headquarters in Kantipath on the fourth day of assuming office on Thursday, Aryal emphasised that the government was proceeding by focusing on the timely election. 

"The preparations for the elections are moving at a fast pace because any delay could risk further unrest," said Minister Aryal. "The March 5 elections are the government's top priority. We must not doubt whether the election will take place or not; our focus should be on preparing with a positive mindset and a commitment to timely execution."

Aryal said elected representatives and governments were displaced due to youth-led movements and also called on all political parties and stakeholders to unite for election preparations. 

He emphasised that the upcoming election will be a historic moment, offering a platform for the youth to engage in the political mainstream and contribute to the nation-building process.

"This election, coming after a period of unrest, will open doors for the youth to actively participate in shaping the country's future," he added.

The Minister assured that the government was committed to ensuring peaceful and secure elections, while also facilitating voting opportunities for Nepali citizens living abroad. "We are determined to organise free, fair, and internationally recognised elections," he added. 

Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari said that with President Ramchandra Paudel's announcement to hold elections on March 5, the Election Commission had already intensified its preparations.

He said, “The commission is determined to conduct the election on time. However, there are legal obstacles to adding new voters, and regarding the participation of Nepali citizens living abroad in the voting process, the commission has urged the government to make arrangements for legal, technical, and resource management.” 

He also informed that the election bill, prepared after consulting all parties, has remained in the ministry for two years.

He also informed that the commission was determined to create an environment for all parties to participate in the election. 

He said that the commission also has the responsibility to hold the National Assembly election by March 4, 2026, and there should be no delay in the preparations from any party.