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Every conversation seems to inevitably veer towards the soon to be held local elections. Especially since this has been overdue for almost two decades; the government as well as the public seems to want to make the most of it. Even though there is over a month left, there is a sense of urgency in the air. The Week spoke to some valley denizens to find out what’s going on in their heads when they hear the word ‘election’.

Deepak Dhakal

I’m from Kavre and though there are many of us from the area who are permanently based here in Kathmandu, we are paying a lot of attention to all that has been developing for the election. We are actually having a gathering next week to discuss the candidates. There are many hopefuls who have participated in the last election, 20 years ago, again applying for this one. However, they are more likely to still have the old mindset so my friends and I are keen to support the young guns. I believe voting for them will be a wise thing to do.

They must be able to bring progressive change. But sadly, this isn’t our decision alone, it also depends on whether the concerned parties will be willing to promote the younger candidates. We shall see. Personally, I want to help them out anyway I can.

Hari Ram Ghimire

I haven’t paid too much attention to the on goings of the upcoming election in my hometown of Dolakha yet. However, at a time when our country lacks a proper, efficient system, I know that these local elections couldn’t be more important. I plan to eventually find out the details of the candidates as we get closer to the election 
and I definitely plan to vote as well. Right now is more a time of waiting to see how the nominee options shape up. 

I do have some family and acquaintances that are actively participating in the election process and are already trying to rustle up support for themselves or their candidates. They talk big about helping development and how this election is for the people, not the state, but I’m not entirely convinced. Only time will tell.

Janaki Khanal

To be honest, I haven’t decided whether I will be voting or not. As always, we are obviously hoping for a sincere man or woman who has the capabilities to bring about positive change in the society and help bring some sense of direction to the workings and plannings of the government. But can this election offer such candidates? I’m not entirely convinced. We, Nepalis, are well aware of how our government officials play musical chairs with the coveted government seats. If that is the case this time around as well, I’m not interested in participating. What’s the point of it all? I want to see who comes up as representatives and then I shall decide. There is much hype of the election coming back after 20 years but if it doesn’t serve its purpose, then there is no point in being excited.

Kriti Kiran Khadka

I believe this election will contribute to peace and stability of the country. This election will elect our communities’ representatives and I am hopeful to see new faces and progressive ideologies. I shall keep an eye on the agendas they will focus on. We are obviously looking forward to positive change. We can see it happening already through some efforts of youth leaders like Gagan Thapa and Ujwal Thapa. So we should all be optimistic to participate and vote. I’m definitely going to exercise my voting rights for a candidate I think will be a responsible leader.

Alisha Upreti

This being a revolutionary event, I’m excited about it. It has taken the country 20 years and in the meantime, I have reached voting age as well. So far, it was only my parents who would participate in the election process so I am very much looking forward to the experience. 

I feel the responsibility as well. I plan to thoroughly go through the agendas and the plans that the candidates put forth. I am also wary of the rhetoric that almost always surrounds these elections. Nepalis need to understand the importance of electing capable candidates who will dedicate their time to make sure there is progress. It’s never a one sided affair. Building a developed community is a collaborative responsibility of the political leaders and the people.

Illa Poudel

Recently, I was being interviewed by Bibeksheel Nepali regarding the changes I was expecting and the issues that I saw in my community. At that moment, my main concern was that there are no local authorities to whom we can put forth our queries and complains. Many Nepalis are simply helpless. They don’t know who will address their concerns or even if those problems will be taken to the responsible authorities, let alone expect solutions. But the upcoming local election will be addressing this issue so I’m choosing to be positive about it. If there are local regulators then life for many will become so much better. I just hope everybody will regard this as the important event it is and take responsibilities accordingly.

 
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