PM Karki Flags Risk of Election Delays as Severe Cold Engulfs Mountain Districts

Kathmandu — Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said that if extreme cold caused by heavy snowfall makes voting difficult in the Himalayan districts, elections there could be held in a second phase.

Speaking briefly with reporters after addressing the National Service Brigade’s graduation ceremony at a Nepal Army barracks in Hattikhori, eastern Nawalparasi, on Tuesday, Prime Minister Karki said that contingency plans may be considered for mountain areas where weather conditions are too harsh for voters to participate.

“If excessive cold creates a situation where voting cannot be held, then it may be done in a second phase,” she told the press.

Karki also said the government is preparing to hold elections in the Himalayan districts on the scheduled date of Falgun 21 (March 5, 2026) and that discussions are underway about transporting voters to accessible areas where vehicles can operate.

She reiterated her commitment to holding the election on time, emphasizing that there is no intention to postpone the poll, saying: “Whether it changes or not, the election will be held on the appointed date.”

The prime minister added that the election will help the country find a way out of its political deadlock and will be a cornerstone for establishing stability and peace in Nepal.