By Blessing Nweke
Leaders in Nepal have called on citizens to ensure a successful voting day on 5 March, as the country prepares for its first general election since deadly youth-led protests toppled the government last September.
In a televised address on Monday, Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki urged voters to head to polling stations, acknowledging the ballot is taking place after a “complex, sensitive and challenging” period. Nearly 19 million people, including about 800,000 first-time voters, are eligible to cast ballots for the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of parliament.
“It is only with your active participation that our democracy will survive,” Karki said, describing the vote as a critical opportunity to decide the country’s future. She appealed for peace and harmony throughout the election season.
President Ram Chandra Poudel also addressed the nation, calling the poll a shared responsibility and historic duty. He urged citizens to seize what he described as a “historic opportunity” to strengthen and consolidate Nepal’s federal democratic republic.
More than 3,400 candidates are contesting 275 seats in Thursday’s election, with over 1,000 candidates under the age of 40. Officials say campaign activities have so far been peaceful, though security forces remain on high alert.
Police reported 133 arrests linked to alleged “anti-election activities,” with 70 people still in custody as of Sunday evening. Among those detained is Durga Prasai, a controversial political figure who had announced plans to protest the election. His supporters say the arrest violated his right to free expression.
Authorities have deployed tens of thousands of police and army personnel nationwide to safeguard the vote.
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