KATHMANDU: President Bidya Devi Bhandari has said that a fresh mandate is essential for peace, stability, and development.

Receiving the annual report of the Election Commission, President Bhandari also said that the elections should be held on time.

“President Bhandari said that a fresh mandate is essential for peace, stability, and development, it is imperative for holding polls on announced dates. Stating that the preparations being made by the Commission are positive, President expressed confidence that the Commission would be able to work seriously and resolutely for free, fair, credible, economical and fearless elections,” reads the statement by the Election Commission.

On the occasion, Bhandari suggested that since the task of institutionalizing and strengthening democracy lies with the Election Commission, it should work towards ensuring maximum voter turnout and voting rights of all voters and making polling stations and centers voter-friendly.

The commission on Monday submitted its annual report 076/77 BS to President Bhandari as per Article 294 of the constitution.