Nepali Political Parties Ready to Contest Elections Amid Constitutional Concerns

After the dissolution of the House of Representatives, several political parties in Nepal have expressed readiness to participate in elections, provided a free, fair, and fear-free environment is ensured. They emphasized that elections should take place as per the scheduled dates, though final party decisions are still pending.

Eight major parties—including Nepali Congress, CPN-UML, CPN-Maoist, Janata Samajwadi, and Loktantrik Samajwadi—have united in their stance that the House dissolution was unconstitutional.

Interim Government and Election Dates

Immediately after being appointed as interim Prime Minister, Sushila Karki recommended the dissolution of the House and proposed the election date. Accordingly, the general elections for the House of Representatives are scheduled for 21 Falgun 2082 (March 4, 2026).

Congress leader Arjun Narasingh KC stressed that political parties with historical responsibility must participate in elections to strengthen democracy and uphold the supremacy of the people.

“The interim government’s first task is to ensure a credible environment for elections within six months. Parties must contest and test their mandate with the people,” KC said.

He added that political parties must overcome past mistakes and work with the electorate, as periodic elections are essential to strengthen democracy.

CPN-UML’s Perspective

While CPN-UML is willing to contest, it remains skeptical about the fairness of the elections, citing that the House dissolution contradicts Supreme Court precedents. Deputy General Secretary Pradeep Gyawali emphasized the need for the interim government to ensure a neutral and impartial election environment.

General Secretary Gokarna Bista stressed that political parties should pressure the government to hold elections as scheduled.

Maoist Party Stance

Senior Vice-President Narayankaji Shrestha said the primary focus is to conduct general elections on the announced date. The party is unanimous in its decision to participate, noting that the President’s constitutional authority under Article 61 validates the election announcement.

Deputy General Secretary Janardan Sharma added that investigations and accountability for those responsible for the Gen-Z protest damages on September 23—including destruction at Singh Durbar, Supreme Court, Parliament, and other critical structures—are necessary to ensure a credible electoral environment.

Other Parties

• Rastriya Swatantra Party: General Secretary Kavindra Burlakoti emphasized holding the House elections within six months while maintaining national stability and democratic rights.
• CPN-Unified Socialist: Senior leader Veduram Bhusal stated the party will participate once a fair and credible electoral environment is guaranteed.
• Janata Samajwadi Party: Leader Manish Suman stressed supporting Prime Minister Karki and assisting the interim government to ensure timely elections.

All parties agreed that safeguarding democracy and the Constitution is their collective responsibility.