Solukhumbu, Feb 12: Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said that conducting voting in the mountainous and hilly districts on March 5 is possible under any circumstances.
The Prime Minister arrived here today to assess election preparations, relevant security arrangements, and geographical challenges.
On the occasion, she stated that there is no situation that would warrant postponing the election, emphasizing that the election must be held as scheduled.
“There is no alternative to holding the election on March 5 to free the country from the cycle of instability,” she said. Acknowledging the challenges of conducting elections in mountainous regions, she added that the government has already made necessary arrangements to address such adversities.
The Prime Minister urged voters, political parties, and candidates to remain confident that the election will be conducted in a fearless, peaceful, and impartial atmosphere. According to her, the government’s entire focus is now on ensuring the election is held in a cordial environment. She also called on all concerned bodies to concentrate their efforts on the polls.
During a briefing with the District Security Committee, the Prime Minister specifically directed authorities to create an environment where voters can cast their ballots without fear, pressure, or influence.
She instructed the concerned authorities to leave no stone unturned in guaranteeing security at remote polling stations in the mountainous areas, and directed them to mobilize additional security forces if necessary.
On the occasion, Chief District Officer Leela Kumari Pandey KC presented a detailed briefing to the Prime Minister, highlighting the district’s overall security situation, the physical status of polling centers, and their accessibility.
After reviewing the details, the Prime Minister directed the authorities to take special precautions regarding security, transportation of election materials, and the safety of ballot papers, according to CDO Pandey.
Solukhumbu, the part of Koshi Province, has 123 polling stations. The District Administration Office stated that alternative plans have been prepared in view of possible snowfall, climate conditions, and geographical challenges.
The Prime Minister said it is the constitutional responsibility of the government to ensure the voting rights of people in all areas, including mountainous regions. She assured that necessary arrangements would be made to enable the voters of Solukhumbu to cast their ballots in an easy and accessible manner.
