KATHMANDU: Minister for Home Affairs, Om Prakash Aryal, has said that the government is eager to hand over power to the people’s elected representatives by holding the election on the announced date.

Sharing his views on “peace, security, and preparations for the upcoming election” at a meeting of the National Assembly’s Committee on Federalism Enabling and National Concern here today, he said the primary responsibility of the incumbent government is to successfully conclude the election on March 5, 2026.

“Discussions and consultations have been held with political parties, concerned stakeholders, and the chiefs of diplomatic missions, focusing on conducting the election in a free, impartial, and fearless atmosphere,” he added.
He further stated that, in coordination with all security bodies, joint patrolling aimed at maintaining peace and order has begun.

Likewise, a taskforce coordinated by a joint secretary at the Home Ministry, comprising representatives from all security bodies, has been formed to prepare the election security plan. The report prepared by the taskforce will be implemented after approval from the Central Security Committee, he added.

According to the Minister, the process to amend laws has been initiated to ensure the franchise for Nepali citizens abroad. “The Voter List Act 2073 has been amended to provide the younger generation with the opportunity to vote. This has added more than two hundred thousand voters,” he said.

Some resources required for electoral security have been arranged, while others are in the process of being managed. He added that the government has taken the issues of escaped prisoners and looted arms seriously, considering them significant security challenges.

“The government is confident that the election will be held in a free and impartial atmosphere by overcoming all potential challenges,” the Home Minister said.

Stating that the nation and the public have high expectations of the incumbent government, he pledged to meet those expectations to the maximum extent while remaining within its jurisdiction. “We have no excuse for failure and are confident of receiving cooperation from all quarters in the days to come.”