President Paudel directs government, security chiefs to ensure free, fair, and fearless elections

October 18, Kathmandu: President Ramchandra Paudel has directed the government and heads of security agencies to instill confidence in political parties and the public that elections will be held in a free, fair, and fearless environment.

During a discussion at the President’s Office, Shital Niwas, on Saturday, attended by Prime Minister Sushila Karki and other ministers, President Paudel issued these instructions to the chiefs of all four security agencies.

He also directed them to act boldly to maintain peace and security and ensure a fearless atmosphere for the elections, according to the President’s Press Advisor, Kiran Pokharel. Additionally, President Paudel urged the immediate recovery of weapons looted on August 24 and the apprehension of escaped prisoners.

Prime Minister Karki stated that the government would leave no stone unturned to conduct the elections in a free, fair, and fearless manner. She assured that the government would provide all necessary resources and support to the security agencies to ensure thorough preparations.

The heads of the security agencies assured President Paudel that they are fully capable of maintaining peace and security and conducting the elections in a fearless environment. They recalled successfully holding peaceful elections in more challenging circumstances in the past and affirmed that the security forces are fully prepared for the upcoming elections.

The discussion was attended by Prime Minister Karki, all ministers except the Finance Minister, Chief of Army Staff Ashok Sigdel, Inspector General of Police Chandrakuber Khapung, Inspector General of Armed Police Force Raju Aryal, and Chief of the National Investigation Department Tekendra Karki.