Although all political parties have already submitted their proportional representation lists, he noted that weak law and order has become a major concern.
“The key question is whether elections can be conducted impartially and without fear amid the current security situation,” he said, stressing that the government must take responsibility for ensuring a credible electoral environment. He added that the Nepali Congress is a democratic party that does not shy away from elections and is prepared to accept defeat, but only under fair conditions.
Dr. Koirala pointed out that maintaining peace and security during elections is primarily the responsibility of the police administration, but claimed that police morale is currently very low. He also underlined that the army does not conduct elections, a fact that must be clearly understood by all.
Recalling the first Constituent Assembly election in 2008, he expressed skepticism about holding fear-free elections now, citing the escape of serious criminals and the widespread presence of illegal weapons in society at that time.
The Congress leader strongly condemned police repression against the Gen Z movement on Sept 23, saying it deserves the strongest criticism.
However, he also warned against trivializing the vandalism that took place on Sept 24.
He said administrative buildings from Singha Durbar to provincial structures, as well as the residences of political leaders, were vandalized, questioning whether Gen Z alone could have caused such widespread destruction within six hours.
“Is all this merely an attempt to bring down the Congress–UML government?” he asked, adding that even the restoration of Parliament would not be sufficient to resolve the country’s deep-rooted problems.
