KATHMANDU: Members of the National Assembly of Nepal have urged the government to ensure that the upcoming House of Representatives (HoR) elections on March 5 are conducted fairly, impartially, and in a peaceful environment.
During the zero hour of today’s session, lawmaker Sharada Devi Bhatta highlighted the need for a safe and patient voting atmosphere with less than three weeks remaining until the polls.
Several lawmakers raised pressing contemporary issues. Ganga Kumari Belbase called for exploration and commercial production of petroleum discovered in Dailekh, while Gopal Bhattarai expressed concern over the removal of contract-based employees from the Social Welfare Council. Sumitra BC highlighted increasing murder incidents nationwide and demanded action against the perpetrators along with justice for victims.
During the special hour of the session, lawmakers also discussed issues such as food security, cultural heritage preservation, and exploration of hydropower, herbal resources, and petroleum in the Karnali region. They emphasized that the HoR elections are an opportunity to strengthen democratic norms and values.
Urmila Aryal noted that religious and cultural heritage in Madhesh Province is under threat, urging the government to implement concrete preservation policies. She further called for initiatives addressing unemployment, poverty, and gender inequality, emphasizing women’s education, economic empowerment, and inclusion of marginalized communities such as Muslims and Dalits.
Durga Kumari Gurung stressed the significance of the elections following the Gen Z movement of September 8–9, which heightened youth awareness about corruption control and good governance. She also criticized the neglect of women candidates under the first-past-the-post system.
Gopi Bahadur Achhamai underscored that the elections are crucial for implementing the federal structure, effectively practicing the Constitution, and institutionalizing achievements of past political movements.
Overall, the NA session highlighted the importance of a transparent, impartial, and well-organized election process as a cornerstone for strengthening Nepal’s democracy.
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