Jhapa-2 voters seek employment, education, healthcare

By Our Correspondent,Damak, Feb. 23: As the election for the House of Representatives scheduled for March 5 approaches, electoral activities in Jhapa–2 have intensified.

Since the early mornings, voters have been observed engaging in discussions about the polls at junctions, tea shops, resting areas, and market streets.

Voters are diligently evaluating candidates’ promises on critical issues such as employment, agriculture, education, health, and good governance.

“All candidates make commitments, but few fulfill them," stated a local tailor in Shantinagar. “No one has ever truly understood the core problems of our households," he added.

Other voters in Budhabare also expressed uncertainty regarding whom to support. “All manifestos appear promising, and listening to all candidates compels me to consider voting, but I remain undecided about whom to choose,” said 55-year-old Bhawani Rijal.

This election features prominent female candidates, including former ministers and Members of Parliament, contesting directly, thereby rendering women’s votes highly contested.

"Had there been only one woman candidate, the decision would have been simpler, but since all speak and act similarly, it complicates the choice," remarked Ranjana Shivakoti of Charpane.

Shared concerns among voters predominantly concern employment, equitable pricing for agricultural produce, education, and healthcare services. Youths often migrate abroad due to the lack of local opportunities, farmers struggle to secure fair prices for their crops, and basic services remain inaccessible.

Many young voters also expressed frustration over corruption and the concealment of misconduct by political leaders. "Discussions on social media often become abusive, leading youths to hesitate in expressing their opinions openly. Even sharing viewpoints can result in insults,” noted Sijan Prasai of Birtamod.

In this constituency, the election is contested by Devraj Ghimire, the incumbent Speaker of the House of Representatives, contesting as the CPN-UML candidate; Indira Ranamagar, the incumbent Deputy Speaker, representing the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP); Sarita Prasai, a former minister from the Nepali Congress; Dharmashila Chapagain from the Nepali Communist Party (NCP); Bhadra Prasad Nepal from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party; and Dr. Yubaraj Sangroula, an independent candidate.

Ghimire's campaign slogan is “Complete the Incomplete Development," emphasising infrastructure projects, modernisation of agriculture, marketing of local produce, and industrial expansion."Voters have observed our work over the past three years. Experience is vital for policy implementation, and I have been communicating this to voters,” he stated.

RSP candidate Ranamagar emphasises good governance, transparency, and inclusive representation. She has pledged to amplify the voices of women, Dalits, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities in parliament.

NC candidate Prasai aims to fortify social development and democratic foundations, emphasising her understanding of local issues and promising a trustworthy renewal of the NC.

NCP candidate Chapagain underscores social justice, workers’ rights, and the empowerment of marginalised communities. He has committed to advancing issues related to landless and informal settlers through agricultural cooperatives and community ownership programmes.

Female candidates across political parties have also prioritised women’s empowerment in their campaigns.

RPP candidate Nepal advocates for the protection of religion, culture, and national identity. He highlighted the need to revisit the debate on establishing a Hindu state and federal structures, as well as promoting religious tourism and employment rooted in local culture, as key priorities.

According to the Election Commission, Jhapa–2 has a total of 147,522 registered voters, including 73,520 men (50.13 per cent), 73,567 women (49.87 per cent), and five others.), 73,567 women (49.87 per cent), and five others.