kathmandu: The Election Commission (EC) has mandated local governments to declare a public holiday on December 1 for the upcoming local level by-elections. The directive, aimed at facilitating smooth voter participation, calls for the provision of polling venues from November 28 until the conclusion of voting on December 1.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the EC has instructed the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration to ensure that community schools, private schools, ward offices, health posts, community buildings, industrial establishments, and other public places designated as polling venues are made available for the by-election process. Voting is scheduled to commence at 7:00 am and conclude at 5:00 pm on the day of the by-election.
In a meeting held on Sunday, the EC emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for the by-election, urging local governments to facilitate a process that is free, fair, credible, and economical. EC spokesperson Nota Pokharel Arya
l reiterated the necessity of the holiday to ensure maximum voter turnout and seamless election proceedings.