Elections only path to good governance: Acting Election Chief

KATHMANDU: Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ramprasad Bhandari has said that the upcoming elections are the only viable option to safeguard good governance and uphold the constitution in Nepal.

Speaking at the ‘Election News Orientation’ program organized by the Gorkhapatra Sansthan, Bhandari rejected rumors and doubts spread after the announcement of the election date, asserting that the voting process will proceed under all circumstances. “The only alternative to elections is elections themselves. Some frustrated elements are trying to create confusion that elections might be halted, but the people of Nepal will not be witnesses to anyone’s personal vendetta. Voting will be held on the March 5 from 7 AM to 5 PM without fail,” he said.

Media and EC: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Bhandari described the Election Commission and the media as “two sides of the same coin.” While the commission manages administrative aspects of the election, journalists play a crucial role in creating a conducive electoral environment and informing voters. “The atmosphere and awareness you have helped foster are what have brought us to this stage of electoral preparedness,” he said.

Ban on Opinion Polls

The Acting Chief Commissioner strongly urged against conducting opinion polls ahead of the election. He warned that pre-election surveys could manipulate voter sentiment and undermine the integrity of the electoral process. “No one should play with the sanctity of elections under the guise of constitutional rights. Opinion polls that show losing candidates as winners and winning candidates as losers can mislead voters, posing a serious threat to the entire process,” he stressed.

Youth Voter Enthusiasm

Bhandari highlighted the addition of 900,000 to 1,000,000 new voters as a positive development, noting that young voters dominate this group and are eager to participate in the democratic process to promote good governance. “The energy and enthusiasm of young voters will pave the way for effective governance in Nepal,” he said.

Vigilance Over Election Observers

Addressing election observers, both domestic and international, Bhandari urged them to operate strictly within their authorized scope. Citing bitter experiences from previous elections, where some institutions used observation as a pretext to influence voting in favor of specific symbols, he requested media personnel to act as a “third eye” to monitor observer activities.

He further warned that some individuals might approach polling stations unnecessarily, question polling officials, or attempt to disrupt the process under the guise of observation. Journalists were urged to immediately report any such incidents.

Ensuring Peace and Stability

Bhandari expressed confidence that this election, despite being the most complex in decades due to political unrest and the dissolution of the House of Representatives, would restore order and discipline in the country. “We have simplified the process, and the elected representatives will respect the people’s mandate, ensuring peace and good governance,” he said.

He called on all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, voters, and observers, to participate responsibly in the “sacred task” of conducting elections peacefully.