CPN-Maoist Centre Chair Prachanda Questions Election Integrity

Surkhet. Coordinator of the Nepali Communist Party (NCP), Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', has expressed doubts about the elections held on February 21. Nearly two months after the elections were completed, he raised questions, stating that in some places, even the votes cast by the candidates themselves were not seen in the count.

Speaking to journalists in Rukum West on Thursday, Prachanda said, —We have conducted a very serious review of the completed elections. In our conclusion, this election was not normal and natural, but rather appeared somewhat abnormal and unnatural.’

He stated that reports received from various places regarding the election results did not appear normal and natural. Prachanda mentioned receiving complaints and reports such as votes cast by candidates themselves not being counted in some places, unexpected votes being received in places where no victory was anticipated, and votes considered secure disappearing suddenly at the last moment.

—Considering all these aspects, our determination is that this election was not normal,’ he added, —Therefore, we have reached the conclusion that further study and serious investigation are needed.’

However, he also stated that the public mandate expressed through the elections and the success achieved by the Rastriya Swatantra Party have been accepted easily.

—In the coming days, our cooperation and support will be extended to the good work done by the government,’ he added, —However, there will be strong criticism of the government's weaknesses. We have decided to play the role of a constructive opposition in the parliament.’