Tension gripped the Simara area of Bara district for most of Wednesday after clashes broke out between Gen Z youths and CPN-UML supporters. The situation escalated to the point where the District Administration Office imposed a curfew around the Simara airport. Flights to and from Kathmandu were halted, further underscoring the gravity of the unrest. The confrontation began when Gen Z youths took to the streets upon learning that UML leaders were arriving. UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel and leader Mahesh Basnet were scheduled to travel through the airport en route to a programme in Parwanipur, triggering the protests. It is troubling to see Gen Z activists attempting to restrict constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of movement and freedom of speech. These developments come at a time when uncertainty still hangs over the scheduled March 5 House of Representatives (HoR) election. At such a delicate moment, it is imperative that all sides exercise restraint and avoid actions that could vitiate the election environment.
The Election Commission (EC) has already published the election schedule, signalling a growing resolve to hold the polls. While some political leaders and self-proclaimed Gen Z representatives have claimed that elections are unlikely, the EC's proactive steps tell a different story. The enthusiasm with which political parties are registering for the election suggests that a conducive electoral environment is gradually emerging. Prime Minister Sushila Karki has been holding consultations across society to prepare for the polls. All signs collectively indicate that the country is moving toward the HoR election on March 5. Conducting this election on time is essential for safeguarding Nepal's democracy and the Constitution drafted by the democratically elected Constituent Assembly. Casting doubt on the election or actively opposing it risks undermining not only the polls but also the broader democratic process. Statements by individuals claiming to represent Gen Z but appearing close to the government have sounded irresponsible and undemocratic. No one—not individuals, not parties—holds the authority to obstruct any party’s or citizen’s right to participate, except in cases explicitly restricted by law. It is therefore vital that the government provide credible assurances of law and order, and firmly distance itself from groups advocating for boycotts or attempting to restrict the movement of political leaders. Only then can the polls be free, fair and truly independent.
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Elections gain legitimacy—both nationally and internationally—only when they are perceived as impartial and transparent. To uphold this credibility, the government must demonstrate heightened vigilance and sincerity. If political forces seek constitutional change, the correct path is to seek a fresh mandate through the March 5 election, not through street agitation. Attempts to circumvent constitutional processes risk perpetuating cycles of violence reminiscent of the tragedies of September 8 and the destruction of September 9. At this critical juncture, all actors must set aside personal interests and ego. Strengthening the electoral environment requires calm, discipline and restraint from every stakeholder—political parties, activist groups and the government alike. Supporting the HoR election sincerely and responsibly is the only viable path forward. All parties concerned must work to ensure that incidents similar to the one that took place in Bara do not recur.
