Materials dispatch enters final phase
In a recent interview, Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari said the Election Commission will complete the dispatch of ballot papers, security seals, voter lists, training manuals and other sensitive and non-sensitive materials to all election offices by around February 19. From there, polling officers will take custody and move towards their assigned polling stations well ahead of March 5.
Bhandari underlined that logistical preparation is time-bound and unforgiving. Once materials leave central warehouses, responsibility gradually shifts to district election offices, local administrations, polling officials and security forces posted in each area.
‘We cannot relax until after the vote’
The acting chief commissioner said the commission will remain on high alert until counting is concluded. He noted that minor disruptions in transport, weather or security conditions can still affect remote constituencies if not addressed early.
Bhandari also pointed to regular meetings with the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and National Investigation Department under the integrated security plan. According to him, joint election operation centres and communication units are designed to ensure that any disturbance affecting voting materials or polling staff can be quickly reported and managed.