KATHMANDU, May 1: A series of unexpected political developments on Sunday have lowered the prospects of holding the much-awaited local level polls on May 14 as declared by the government.
The political developments trigged by the decision of the Nepali Congress and CPN (Maoist Center)-led coalition to register an impeachment motion against Chief Justice Sushila Karki prompted Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Bimalendra Nidhi to resign from his position. The Rastriya Prajatantra Party, another key partner in the current coalition government, has reached the conclusion of quitting the government.
Quite aware of the recent political developments, according to leaders, are unlikely to participate in the election as the constitution amendment bill is yet to be endorsed by parliament. EC officials are worried that the security situation could be compromised as the Ministry of Home Affairs, which is considered second important institution after the Office of the Prime Minister, remains headless.
"We are confused about the fate of May 14 elections as unexpected developments are taking place one after another," said Election Commissioner Ila Sharma, adding, "Not just the upcoming local elections, any election may not take place in time if the government leadership is changed."
A board meeting of the EC has been scheduled for Monday morning on how to make the May 14 elections a success. The nomination of candidates was expected to begin from Tuesday.
Chief Election Commissioner Ayodhee Prasad Yadav, however, hopes that the elections will be held. "The elections will happen as scheduled as that is still possible," said Yadav.
Like CEC Yadav, former election chief Neel Kantha Uprety urged the election body to move ahead with its plan to hold the elections. "The EC should lead the election process even if the government's commitment is not clear. Since all preparations have been made, the EC should lead the entire election process," said Uprety.
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