Kathmandu: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagdish Kharel, has urged the State-run media to prioritize the dissemination of content that fosters an environment conducive to elections. He reminded the editorial teams of their accountability and responsibility, emphasizing the importance of addressing the demands of Gen Z for good governance and the end of corruption.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Kharel highlighted the government’s active efforts to address these demands in conjunction with the upcoming March 5 election. He noted the ongoing discussions with political parties, civil society, and media, and stressed the role of State-run media in creating a favorable environment for elections. The Minister further mentioned consultations with stakeholders, including political parties, Gen Z representatives, and civil society, focusing on election and good governance.
A tripartite meeting, called by Prime Minister Sushila Karki, was held on October 29, bringing together government officials, political parties, and Gen Z representatives. This followed earlier talks between the government and political leaders on October 21. As the government spokesperson, Minister Kharel assured that preparations for the election were being intensified and expressed confidence that both political parties and Gen Z representatives were supportive of the electoral process. He urged the media to focus on their issues in news coverage.
Minister Kharel warned that the country might face another crisis if the election is not held and reiterated the government’s priority on elections. He stressed that the voices of Gen Z, victim families, and those injured in protests deserve special attention in media coverage. He argued that State-run media were no longer under political pressure and called for the continuous production of fair, balanced, and credible news.
During the meeting, editors and reporters from the four State-run media outlets-Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS), Gorkhapatra Corporation, Nepal Television, and Radio Nepal-briefed Minister Kharel on their efforts to produce and disseminate news addressing Gen Z issues and government activities. RSS chief editor Uttam Silwal and chief reporter Narayan Prasad Neupane committed to promoting election, good governance, and Gen Z aspirations through their news dissemination.
Other media representatives, including officiating editor at Gorkhapatra daily Junar Babu Basnet, chief of the digital section Narad Muni Gautam, chief of News Division at Nepal Television Pushpahari Kyampa Rai, online coordinator at Nepal Television Govinda Dhital, chief of News Division at Radio Nepal Pawan Pyakurel, and Deputy Director at Radio Nepal Pramod Dahal, also shared insights on their current news production and dissemination practices.