Minister Kharel reiterates government's determination to conducting HoR elections

Kathmandu, Dec 26: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel said that the government has the desire and the determination to conduct the election to the House of Representatives members on the scheduled date, and is continuously pursuing talks and discussions with political parties.

After a meeting with Coordinator of the Nepali Communist Party, Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', at his private residence today, he informed journalists that Prime Minister Sushila Karki herself has been directly and indirectly advancing political negotiations.

He said that during the meeting Coordinator Prachanda had emphasised that elections should be held on the scheduled date, reiterating that there is no alternative to elections.

Communication Minister Kharel said, "There has been dialogue and meetings with all sides, all parties and the major political parties. In that process, meetings have taken place between the party and specific leaders at party offices and leaders' homes."

Stating that the incumbent government is committed to holding elections on the scheduled date, he clarified that the government is working with high priority on holding elections along with good governance and controlling corruption.

Minister Kharel clarified that the government has continued with dialogue and discussions with the remaining individuals, groups, youth, Gen Z representatives, and security agencies.

He urged journalists to convey the message to the public that the election is ensured while the Election Commission, security bodies, and other concerned agencies are focused on the election.

Communication Minister Kharel said, "The top leaders of the three main parties have expressed in their meeting with him that they are not against the elections, that elections must take place, and that elections are synonymous with democracy. They have also clearly stated that receiving a fresh mandate and being approved by the people is the right and appropriate path."

Minister Kharel stated that Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba clearly expressed from the Nepali Congress side that there is no alternative to elections and that the reinstatement of the House of Representatives is not his party's issue, adding that from the Nepali Communist Party's side as well, they have expressed there is no alternative to elections, and thus the only path forward is elections.

He further said that UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has also stated in a meeting with him the UML's desire to go for the elections, but had expressed concern that an environment of security should be created for that.

Reflecting the sentiments expressed by the parties, Minister for Communication Kharel stated that the government is committed to creating an electoral environment, saying, "From the meeting with the top leaders, not only am I optimistic, but the election will be held on March 5, 2026. All political parties will participate in the election." (RSS)