Nepal Election Commission Begins Preparations for March 2026 Elections Following House Dissolution

KalimNews, Kathmandu, September 16, 2025 : Following the dissolution of the House of Representatives (HoR) and the announcement of elections for March 5, 2026 (Falgun 21, 2079), the Election Commission (EC) has initiated its preliminary preparations for the upcoming polls. The dissolution of the HoR took place on September 12 after former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned in the wake of the Gen-Z protests. President Ramchandra Paudel, acting on the recommendation of newly appointed Prime Minister Sushila Karki, announced the dissolution of the HoR and set the election date.

As part of the initial steps in the electoral process, the EC has officially canceled all preparations related to the by-election for Rupandehi Constituency No. 3, which had originally been scheduled for November 2, 2025. With the focus now on the general elections, all efforts are being channeled toward the midterm polls slated for next year.

Election Commission spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai confirmed that the EC has already begun formal consultations with the government. These discussions, along with the necessary administrative planning and logistical arrangements, are being put in place to ensure a smooth and timely election process.

In addition to the EC's preparations, Finance Minister Rameshwar Khanal has announced plans to revise the national budget to ensure that sufficient funds are allocated for the elections. "We are making necessary adjustments to secure the resources required for the electoral process," Khanal said, underscoring the government's commitment to ensuring financial readiness ahead of the polls.

The dissolution of the HoR and the announcement of the election date followed significant political upheaval. Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on September 8–9, after the widespread unrest triggered by the Gen-Z protests. This crisis led to the appointment of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as Nepal's new Prime Minister on September 27, 2025. Shortly thereafter, on the same day, Prime Minister Karki recommended the dissolution of the House, which President Paudel subsequently enacted.

With the March 2026 elections now confirmed, the government and Election Commission are working diligently to ensure the country's political transition occurs with minimal disruption. The focus will now shift to securing the necessary infrastructure and resources for a free and fair election, as Nepal looks to rebuild and move forward after a period of political instability.