With the General Election for the House of Representatives nearly five weeks away, voters’ participation in various dimensions of the electoral process is getting intensified. It is considered highly important in democracies for it ultimately ensures civic say in governance. Their role in pre-voting phase is as important as in act of casting ballots and being a part of counting and result. If they take initiative in listening to what political parties, leaders, candidates and other poll campaigners have to say or stand for while seeking support, it facilitates them to take appropriate decision on exercising their right to vote. Voting in an informed way is what democratic values emphasize and champions of elections have been advocating for centuries. Since casting a ballot is exercising the sovereign power of citizens, it should not be done carelessly. Nepali voters – some 18.9 million in March 5 poll, 2026 – have understood the point for they have played their role brilliantly for many times in the past particularly after democracy dawned in 1951. The mandate they gave in 1959, 1990 and all the elections thereafter are all noted for the wisdom and sense of selectivity engraved in them. That tradition could be termed really great. It should be maintained this time as well with due care. A number of candidates representing various faces of politics are competing for their favour. Voters have to make up their mind for final choice after listening to them, understanding what they pledge to do and how they respond to problems facing the country and people at the moment. Checklists such as political values, populism, media-boosted image, professionalism, character, experience, attachment to electoral constituencies, past performance-record or fresh Gen Z-zeal could emerge as some reference points that could enable voters to make decision on candidates in the polling booth. May the meaningful participation in pre-poll campaigning activities of the electoral process emerge as a significant enabler for voters!
