KATHMANDU, Oct 16: Senior leader of the CPN (Maoist Centre) Dev Gurung has expressed doubts over the likelihood of upcoming elections, accusing the government of failing to create a free and fair electoral environment.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday after attending a discussion called by the Election Commission (EC), Gurung stated that while his party is committed to participating in the elections, the current atmosphere is not conducive to holding them fairly.
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“Elections must be held — we are ready to participate,” said Gurung. “But there is growing doubt about whether the government will be able to create an impartial and independent environment for elections.”
He further accused the government of failing to build trust among political parties, which he said is essential for conducting elections in a credible manner. “The government's actions are being driven by a sense of political vengeance,” Gurung claimed, “which raises serious concerns about the possibility of free and fair elections.”
While the EC has already announced the election date, the Maoist Centre insists that the government must take concrete steps to ensure political trust and fairness in the process. Gurung’s remarks are being viewed as a direct criticism of the ruling party’s handling of the pre-election environment.
