KATHMANDU, Nov 15: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel has said that a conducive environment has already been established for the upcoming election to the House of Representatives, scheduled for March 5.
Speaking at a face-to-face interaction organised on Friday by the South Korea chapter of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), Minister Kharel—who also serves as spokesperson for the interim government led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki—said the government is fully prepared to hold the polls on the announced date.
“We will conduct the election on March 5. A favourable atmosphere for the election has already been created,” he stated.
He further assured that the election would be held in an impartial, secure, and fear-free environment. “The Nepal Police now has new leadership. No political party has said it will boycott the election. Some parties have raised concerns about security and demanded stronger arrangements, which the government is addressing.”
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According to the Minister, creating an election-friendly environment is the shared responsibility of both the government and political parties. He added that the priorities of the current administration—formed in the wake of the Gen Z protest—include ensuring good governance, curbing corruption, and promoting employment and innovation, alongside conducting the election.
Minister Kharel, who is currently in the Republic of Korea to attend the 11th Global ICT Leadership Forum in Seoul, highlighted Nepal’s strong prospects in artificial intelligence and digital transformation. He noted that Nepal has gained “knowledge, skills, and experience” from South Korea—one of the world leaders in digital transformation—and expressed confidence in continued support, particularly for the newly established National AI Center.
He remarked that Nepalis abroad aspire to see peace, stability, and good governance take firm root in their homeland. “This government has no excuse for any wrongdoing,” he said, adding, “We do not have much time for wider delivery, but we are committed to institutionalising systems within these five months.”
The Minister also underscored the need to reform the existing electoral system to reduce its high cost, saying discussions will be held on electoral arrangements and the model of governance in line with the spirit of the Gen Z movement. He emphasised that the interim government was formed constitutionally, enjoys approval from all political parties, and is supported by the international community.
Legal preparations are underway to ensure voting rights for Nepalis living abroad. “I assure you that this provision will be guaranteed, even through an ordinance,” he said.
He further pledged to initiate steps for establishing a direct Nepal Airlines flight between Nepal and South Korea.
At the programme, FNJ South Korea officiating Chair Santosh Khadka stressed the need for constructive contributions to address issues facing Nepalis in South Korea and to strengthen bilateral relations.
Participants urged the government to encourage investment in energy and tourism, attract foreign capital, end corruption, and uphold good governance in line with the ethos of the Gen Z movement. They also demanded that voting rights for Nepalis abroad be ensured for the upcoming polls.
Approximately 100,000 Nepalis are currently living in South Korea for employment, business, or higher studies.
Minister Kharel, who left Nepal on November 11 leading the Nepali delegation to the Global ICT Leadership Forum, is scheduled to return home this evening.
