Beware of disruption

Preparation for March 5, 2026 general election is moving ahead as per law under PM Sushila Karki’s government. The main constitutional body for polls – the Election Commission –has already initiated the electoral process particularly finalizing voters’ list including new voters of Generation Z and other youths, re-registration or fresh registration of political parties. Parallel to that scenario, some disruptive activities including highly provocative observations and activities against election by some senior leaders and political parties are being expressed and organized. The contrasting situation has triggered doubt in public mind about the potentiality of having peaceful campaigning for, voting in, counting of ballots during the parliamentary polls.  One example of disruption could be found in recent Simra-incident which witnessed clash between CPN UML leaders and Gen Z activists. Had both followed the rule of not denying any politico or politicos’ organizations opportunity to go to people and seek their support, the unfortunate squabble would not have taken place and the curfew would not have been introduced for maintaining law and order in the area. All stakeholders of peace, stability, economy, culture and politics in Nepal should bear in mind that they have to be responsible for what they do in pre-election times. They have to understand that the forthcoming election is not just an event or early poll or mid-term poll or a periodic routine political exercise; it is an opportunity to reestablish legitimacy of government through people’s direct participation. They have to be mindful that their duty towards election will be complete only if they could ensure a climate of secure, free and fair campaigning and voting. The institutions meant for such polls will of course have to facilitate the process. Any failure in this regard or any indifference in this context would be very costly for all stakeholders. That would stand in the way of realizing the goals of good governance and political stability and integrity as demanded by the recent Gen Z revolution particularly its martyrs, wounded and youth- participants. One noble means to honour the Gen Z martyrs, Nepali youths and Gen Z revolution is: let country move forward through not interrupting in any way or for any excuse the forthcoming general election.