KATHMANDU: Minister for Communication and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel has said that the environment for the elections scheduled for March 5, 2026, has already been created.
Speaking at an interaction organized by the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) South Korea chapter on Friday, Minister Kharel, who is currently on an official visit to South Korea—reiterated that the polls will be held on the announced date.
“We are conducting the election on March 5. The environment necessary for the election has been prepared,” he said. “Arrangements for a fear-free election have also been made. A new leadership has taken charge of Nepal Police. No political party has said it will boycott the polls. Some have only raised concerns about ensuring a secure atmosphere.”
Kharel, who also serves as the government spokesperson, stressed that both the government and political parties must work together to ensure an enabling electoral environment. He added that the interim government formed in the context of the Gen-Z movement has prioritized holding elections, strengthening governance, controlling corruption, generating employment, and promoting innovation.
Highlighting that AI and digital transformation are Nepal’s future, the Minister said Nepal has recently established the National AI Center and seeks further cooperation from South Korea, a global leader in digital innovation. He noted that Nepalis abroad want peace, stability, and good governance at home.
“This government has no room for wrongdoing. We may not achieve everything in a short time, but we will not do anything wrong. In these five months, we will lay the necessary foundations,” he said.
Minister Kharel emphasized that the government has been formed within the constitutional framework, enjoys recognition from all political parties, and has received support from the international community. He assured that discussions will continue on electoral reforms and a governance system aligned with the aspirations of the Gen-Z movement.
He also said efforts will be made to facilitate direct Nepal Airlines flights to South Korea.
At the event, FNJ South Korea acting chair Santosh Khadka stressed the need for collective efforts to address the concerns of Nepalis in Korea and to strengthen bilateral relations. Jemin Adhikari, Second Secretary at the Nepali Embassy in Seoul, said the embassy is working to safeguard the rights and welfare of Nepalis while promoting Nepal–Korea ties.
Minister Kharel had travelled to South Korea on November 11 to lead the Nepali delegation to the 11th Global ICT Leadership Forum in Seoul. He is scheduled to return to Nepal on Saturday evening.
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