Prime Minister Sushila Karki Expresses Happiness Over Completion of Election Amid Extraordinary Circumstances

March 24, Kathmandu – Prime Minister Sushila Karki expressed her happiness regarding the House of Representatives election held on March 5 (Falgun 21).

Addressing a refreshment ceremony organized by the Election Commission on the occasion of the 2082 House of Representatives member election, she thanked all agencies that played a role in conducting a peaceful election.
“Turning an extraordinary situation into a normal one and successfully completing the election on the scheduled date in a clean, impartial, and peaceful environment is a historic achievement in our democratic journey,” she stated.

The full text of her address is as follows:

Honorable Mr. President,
Honorable Vice President,
Honorable Chief Justice,
Honorable Chairperson of the National Assembly,
Honorable Ministers,
Honorable Vice Chairperson of the National Planning Commission,
Honorable Judges,
Representatives of Political Parties,
Heads and Officials of Constitutional Bodies,
Civil Servants including the Chief Secretary of the Government of Nepal,
Heads of Security Agencies including the Chief of Army Staff,
Representatives of Government and Non-Government Organizations,
Members of the Media,
And all the esteemed guests present here,
Warm greetings to all!

I feel immense pride and joy to be present at this event organized to celebrate the conclusion of the House of Representatives election. I especially wish to thank the Election Commission family, including Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ramprasad Bhandari, for the successful arrangement of this program. As you all know, after the ‘Janajati Rebellion’ on September 8 and 9 last year, the country faced a highly complex and challenging situation.
In that difficult context, the Honorable President announced the House of Representatives election on March 5.

Successfully conducting a clean, fair, and peaceful election on the scheduled date by normalizing extraordinary circumstances is a historic achievement in our democratic journey. This election has opened a new chapter in strengthening democratic values and preserving the constitutional system. The electorate has clearly given a mandate for a stable government, good governance, and prosperity.
The primary responsibility during the current government formation was to successfully conduct the election. However, the security situation was sensitive at the time. Weapons had been seized from security personnel, there was a lack of dialogue among political parties, and an overall legal and political vacuum existed.

Despite all these challenges, we took responsibility with the commitment to bring the country back to the path of constitution and democracy by completing the election within six months, which was not an easy task. The government dedicated all its power, resources, and commitment to this task. Under the skilled leadership of Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ramprasad Bhandari, the Election Commission succeeded with a clear work plan, professional competence, and strong determination.

Though you faced numerous obstacles, opposition, and criticisms during this challenging process, you succeeded in fulfilling the national responsibility to safeguard the country’s future. On behalf of all citizens, I salute you. [I request everyone here to applaud in honor of your dedication.]

This time, we did not merely conduct an election; we established new standards of security, cleanliness, economy, and timely completion. Conducting the election under special circumstances introduced many innovative and positive practices. After the election was announced, many youths registered their names on the voter list for the first time. We simplified the registration process by linking it with the National Identity Card data. We maintained economy by reusing existing materials and utilizing domestically produced resources.

The leadership adopted a policy of purchasing materials through government agencies, which set a historic record in economy. To ensure transparency in election expenses, a separate bank account was operated, social media was strictly monitored, and strict regulations were imposed to prevent the violation of the Code of Conduct. Security arrangements were so robust that there was no need for re-poling at any polling center, and election disputes were minimal.
The primary credit for this success goes to the Election Commission and the security agencies.

If we maintain this standard in upcoming elections, we can further enrich and refine our democracy. Moreover, this election has enhanced Nepal’s democratic image internationally. I express gratitude for the support and cooperation received from national and international communities.
I personally and on behalf of the Government of Nepal, convey high respect and gratitude to the Election Police, all security personnel, civil servants, political parties, candidates, media, civil society, and development partners.

Congratulations to all newly elected representatives and best wishes for a successful tenure. In conclusion, I once again express heartfelt thanks to the Election Commission and all parties involved in this historic endeavor and hope for continued cooperation in strengthening democracy, promoting good governance, and building a prosperous Nepal.
Thank you.
March 24, 2082 (Chaitra 11), Kathmandu.