Government creating enabling election atmosphere: Minister Kharel

Kathmandu, Dec 26: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel asserted that the interim government has created a favourable environment for the election to the House of Representatives on March 5, 2026.

Minister Kharel, also Spokesperson of the government, delivered the statement after emerging out of the meeting with CPN (UML) Chairperson KP Sharma Oli at the latter's residence at Gundu, Bhaktapur today.

Kharel, who is also the member of the high-level political dialogue committee formed by the interim government to engage with political parties and stakeholders to create conducive atmosphere for election, informed that all preparations have been completed to conduct election on the stipulate d time.

He assured that the security arrangement will be strengthened for the election ensuring that those who seek votes and cast votes can do it without any fear.

The interim government led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki is mandated to hold fresh election on March 5, 2026.

Accordingly, the government, forming a high-level committee, has been stepping up engagement with the top leaders of the key political parties and stakeholders.

"In the context of electoral preparation being expedited rapidly, discussions were held with Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and CPN (UML) Chairperson KP Sharma Oli. Discussion will be held with Nepali Communist Party's Coordinator Prachanda today itself," mentioned the Minister.

Minister Kharel shared that leader Oli emphasized that the government should create a favorable environment, including security, for the election.

According to Kharel, he and the UML Chair discussed ensuring peaceful, fearless and impartial election environment. Minister Kharel reiterated the government's commitment towards security arrangements for the election.

Furthermore, he encouraged the UML to confidently participate in the election, stating that the government has created an environment conducive for the election to which Oli reciprocated, "UML is in favour of the election. UML will not run away from the election."

As for the security concern raised by the UML leader, Minister Kharel pledged that all such concerns will addressed by the government.

He said that the government was positive about reconsidering the restrictions imposed on leader Oli.

The government's spokesperson asserted that since the primary goal of this government is to successfully conduct election, any obstacle, challenges and complications arisen in achieving this goal will be addressed to ensure that the election is held smoothly. (RSS)