Post-conflict elections are always challenging
Summary
Nepal prepares for the extraordinary March 5 election amid political and security challenges, with reflections on the 2008 post-conflict polls and calls for election reforms.
Key Points
- Nepal's upcoming March 5 election is considered extraordinary and conducted in abnormal circumstances, similar to the 2008 constituent assembly elections.
- There are significant challenges including a demoralized police force, political discomfort, and the rise of new political alternatives like the Rastriya Swatantra Party.
- Strict enforcement of election laws by the Election Commission is hindered by procedural delays and limited state capacity.
- Recommendations include decentralizing election logistics, fixing election dates, reforming candidate selection, and piloting out-of-country voting and electronic voting technologies.
