Nepal PM Karki Calls for Robust Security Ahead of Sensitive March 5 Elections

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Nepal's Prime Minister Sushila Karki has underscored the army's crucial role in ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for the March 5 parliamentary elections. Speaking at the Army Headquarters in Bhadrakali, Karki expressed confidence in the force's ability to maintain security and facilitate a free, fair, and fear-free electoral process. On Thursday, President Ramchandra Paudel endorsed the Cabinet decision to deploy the army for the upcoming polls. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for a clear action plan to ensure security for the people, support police operations, and allow political parties to function without hindrance. Karki also instructed the army to coordinate closely with other security agencies, including the Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force, to address past election experiences and sensitivities surrounding the polls. The army will work with other agencies to maintain peace and security, recover looted weapons, and apprehend prisoners who escaped during the Gen Z protests. Army officials briefed the Prime Minister on the current security situation, major challenges, and future plans. A presentation was also made on the army's security mobilisation model for the elections. Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal, Law Minister Anil Kumar Sinha, Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel, and other senior officials were present during the briefing.