NC Decides to Participate in March 2026 Election, Calls for Fear-Free Environment

Hamrakura
Published 2025 Nov 23 Sunday

Kathmandu: The Nepali Congress (NC) has concluded that fresh elections are the most appropriate political solution to the existing national crisis and has formally decided to participate in the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026.

A meeting of the party’s Central Working Committee (CWC), held under the chairmanship of Acting President Purna Bahadur Khadka at the party headquarters in Sanepa, reached the decision today. In a statement issued by Chief Secretary Krishna Prasad Poudel, the party said that elections were essential to safeguard the constitution and institutionalise the voices for change amplified during the recent Gen Z demonstrations.

However, the NC expressed grave concerns about the prevailing security situation. “A fear-free environment is essential for elections, but currently thousands of absconding prisoners, missing weapons, disruptions to political programmes, and an overall breakdown of the minimum conditions required for elections are extremely serious issues,” the statement noted.

Calls for Improved Law and Order
The NC urged the government to immediately restore peace and security, strengthen law enforcement, boost the morale of security personnel, and ensure the safety of citizens.

Recalling the violent incidents of September 9, the party said the subsequent political vacuum compelled the President to appoint an interim Prime Minister from outside Parliament to maintain order and respond to the demands of protesting youths. The party, however, reiterated that a solution should have been sought within Parliament and has labelled the dissolution of the House as “unconstitutional” and contrary to Supreme Court interpretations.

Respect for Constitutional Process
Since the constitutionality of the interim government and the dissolution of the House is currently under judicial review, the NC said it respects that the Supreme Court will deliver the final interpretation.

The party also condemned increasing provocative activities, warning that attempts to incite violence, social division, or hatred are unacceptable. The NC emphasized that restricting peaceful protest or freedom of expression contradicts constitutional values and risks further polarization.

Appeals for Dialogue Over Confrontation
“In the present sensitive environment, restraint, dialogue, trust, and understanding are needed—not agitation, prohibition, or violence,” the party stated, urging all groups to seek solutions through peaceful engagement.

Tribute to Victims of September Violence
Expressing deep sorrow over the deaths of 19 youths during the September 8 demonstration against corruption, the NC paid tribute to the deceased and called for appropriate compensation and free treatment for the injured.

The party also highlighted the extensive loss of life and property during the September 9 violence, which left 57 people, including protesters and security personnel, dead and hundreds injured.

Government buildings including the Presidential Palace, Singha Durbar, Parliament, Supreme Court, ministries, courts, and local government offices were set ablaze, the statement said.

Political party offices across 48 districts, including the NC headquarters, and the private homes of more than 125 political leaders were vandalized, looted, and torched. The party characterized these acts as “apolitical, criminal, and utterly destructive.”

Acknowledges Valid Concerns of Gen Z Movement
The NC acknowledged that the core demands raised by the Gen Z protesters—ending corruption, promoting good governance, ensuring transparency, and safeguarding the right to information—are legitimate concerns of the broader public. The party reaffirmed its commitment to addressing these governance issues.

The next meeting of the NC Central Working Committee is scheduled for November 27.



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