Nepal’s Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Friday directed paramilitary forces to remain on high alert and ensure robust security arrangements for the general elections scheduled on March 5.
Addressing a function organised by the Armed Police Force (APF) in Kathmandu to mark its 25th anniversary, Karki stressed that security agencies must ensure that the elections are conducted peacefully, stating that “not even a drop of blood should be shed, nor should anyone be injured” during the process. She also lauded the APF for its effective role in conducting previous elections in a free, fair and fearless manner.
The prime minister said the caretaker government has devoted all its efforts to maintaining stability in the country during the transitional period, adding that all three security agencies—the Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and the Nepal Army—have been mobilised to ensure the successful conduct of the upcoming polls.
Speaking on the occasion, APF Inspector General Raju Aryal said the force is fully prepared to provide round-the-clock security to ensure that the elections are held in a free and fearless environment.
He added that the APF has consistently delivered effective performance by prioritising border security, curbing cross-border crimes, preventing human trafficking, controlling drug smuggling and reducing customs-related irregularities.
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The Election Commission said that as many as 3,484 individuals have filed their candidacies for 165 constituencies across the country, with 2,297 fielded by 68 parties and the rest contesting independently.
As many as 19 million people, out of Nepal’s 30 million population, are eligible to vote, with around one million voters — mostly youth — added to the rolls after the protests.
