Voxpop: Election observers’ views

The Election Observation Committee is monitoring the local level elections in 30 districts of the country. Among them, Former Chief Justices Kalyan Shrestha, Sushila Karki, former Chief Election Commissioner Bhojraj Pokhrel, and former Election Commissioner Ila Sharma observed the election in the three districts of Kathmandu Valley. Here’s what they had to say about the voting process between 7 am and 1 pm.

Kalyan Shrestha, Former Chief Justice

"Elections are generally held peacefully. No such misunderstanding was seen among the leaders and cadres of the political parties. They have been found to have played a supporting role in the election process. Even senior citizens lined up to vote. Some polling stations were not disability friendly. In some places, maximum participation of women was found. The security situation was good. No altercation was reported by any political party. It was seen that 70 to 80 percent of voters were present carrying voter ID cards.

The voting process is done simply and easily. In one or two incidents, voters were reportedly assisted. The smooth conduct of elections can be considered satisfactory.”

Sushila Karki, Former Chief Justice

“While observing nine different polling stations in Bhaktapur, 80 sample booths were found. All the polling officers and security personnel were working in all booths. It looked calm everywhere but in some booths, there were physical problems. It was also seen that patients were brought for voting. In Cipadol, a party worker admitted that she had brought patients. Half the voting has taken place between 11 pm and 12 noon. The security arrangements are good. However, a dispute erupted at a polling station in Changunarayan Municipality. It was learned that the candidates had arranged door-to-door meals in the area.

Candidates were carrying people in Gundu. The ballot box was smaller than the last one. A hospital in Bhaktapur was also closed. This poll shows how civilized we Nepalis are.”

Dr. Bhojraj Pokharel, Former Chief Commissioner of the Election Commission

The election has been found to be encouraging in terms of election participation. It was found that there was no management problem in the polling stations. Political representatives also did not appear to have acted to influence the election. The security arrangements were found to be satisfactory.