Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections to the House of Representatives, scheduled for 5 March 2026, during a general briefing held for diplomatic missions, United Nations agencies, and international organisations based in Kathmandu on January 29.
Addressing the briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai said the upcoming polls mark a significant milestone in Nepal’s democratic journey, coming in the aftermath of the recent Gen-Z movement and representing the third House of Representatives election since the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal in 2015.
With 35 days remaining until polling day, Rai stated that both the Government of Nepal and the Election Commission of Nepal (ECN) are fully prepared to ensure a credible and secure electoral process. The House of Representatives comprises 275 members, with 165 elected through the First-Past-the-Post system and 110 through the Proportional Representation system.
He informed participants that the Election Commission is well advanced in its preparations and has observed an enthusiastic and participatory electoral environment following the nomination of candidates. The Commission is also set to provide a detailed technical briefing to diplomatic missions about a week ahead of the elections.
Highlighting the importance of election observation, Rai noted that the ECN has invited both national and international observers to enhance transparency and public confidence. So far, four international organisations and 37 national organisations have been accredited, while invitations have also been extended to FEMBOSA and partner countries with existing institutional cooperation.
Rai reiterated that the government will fully facilitate election observation in line with established laws and practices, with the Election Commission making necessary logistical and operational arrangements. Diplomatic missions in Kathmandu have been warmly invited to take part in observation, subject to accreditation and guidelines.
He further stated that Election Day Guidelines have already been shared with the diplomatic community, and liaison officers will be designated to ensure smooth coordination. Diplomatic missions and international organisations were urged to strictly adhere to customary procedures related to election observation.
Foreign Secretary Rai also underscored the enforcement of the Election Code of Conduct, 2082, which applies to all stakeholders, including government bodies, security agencies, political parties, candidates, and development partners. Diplomatic missions and international organisations were specifically requested to refrain from any activities that could be perceived as influencing the electoral process, including political programmes, material or financial support, and the use of digital technologies or artificial intelligence for political advocacy.
On election security, Rai said it remains a top priority, with all national security agencies to be mobilised under a three-layered security system led by the Ministry of Home Affairs. He reaffirmed the joint commitment of the government and the Election Commission to ensuring a free, fair, and secure electoral environment across the country.
