Nepal is gearing up for March 5 elections amidst warnings from security agencies about potential hurdles. Reports from Kathmandu highlight concerns such as political clashes, communal tensions, and the escape of prisoners during last year’s Gen Z protests. Some factions, including communist groups and supporters of monarchy restoration, are opposing the upcoming election, prompting heightened surveillance by security agencies.
Security agencies have pinpointed a range of challenges, including clashes between political party supporters, religious tensions, activities of monarchist factions, escaped prisoners from the Gen Z protests, and actions of boycotting political parties. Doubts have surfaced regarding the scheduled snap poll, with monarchist figure Durga Prasain and his followers expressing dissent towards the election.
The security setup has been bolstered in response, with former king Gyanendra casting doubt on the feasibility of holding elections under current circumstances. His recent remarks have added to the uncertainty surrounding the election’s timeline. Despite the growing skepticism on social media, both the government and participating political entities have affirmed their commitment to conducting the election as planned.
Thousands of supporters recently gathered at Kathmandu airport to welcome Gyanendra back, advocating for the restoration of constitutional monarchy. This display of support, just ahead of the crucial March poll, led to a situation where police officers in riot gear struggled to manage the enthusiastic crowd. As the country braces for the House of Representatives election, security updates are being accelerated at the highest levels on a daily basis.
Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki and Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal have been actively involved in reviewing the security situation, particularly focusing on election preparedness. The government, formed after the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli amidst widespread Gen Z protests, is intensifying security measures in anticipation of the upcoming parliamentary election.
