The Nepali Congress (NC) has concluded that holding the upcoming House of Representatives (HoR) election is the appropriate political solution to the country’s current situation. The party has formally decided to participate in the March 5, 2026, election.

A Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting, chaired by Acting President Purna Bahadur Khadka at the party’s central office in Sanepa on Friday, endorsed the decision. The meeting, which had begun on October 14, stressed that the party "firmly believes the country can move forward by protecting the constitution through elections and institutionalising the voices raised during the Gen Z demonstrations."

In a statement issued by Chief Secretary Krishna Prasad Poudel, the party expressed concern over the existing security climate, noting issues such as “thousands of absconding prisoners, missing weapons, and political parties unable to conduct programmes without obstruction,” which the NC said were “extremely serious” conditions ahead of the polls.

The party urged the government to immediately strengthen law and order, ensure peace and security, enhance the morale of security personnel, and create a fear-free environment for the public.

Dissolution of Parliament Called ‘Unconstitutional’

The NC reiterated its position that the dissolution of the HoR was unconstitutional. The statement recalled the Congress’s earlier decision on September 19, which described the move as contrary to constitutional principles and Supreme Court interpretations.

The NC said a solution could have been sought within Parliament and noted that the matter linked to the formation of the interim government and the election declaration awaits a final verdict from the Supreme Court.

Condemns Violence, Urges Restraint and Dialogue

Expressing serious concern over the recent rise in provocative and chaotic activities, the NC cautioned political groups and individuals against inciting violence, disturbing harmony, or spreading hatred.

“In a democratic system and under the rule of law, attempts to prohibit peaceful protests or restrict free expression out of impulse or passion are unacceptable,” the statement said, warning such actions could deepen societal polarization.

The party called for restraint, dialogue, trust, and understanding, rather than agitation or prohibition, and urged all actors to resolve differences peacefully.

Calls for Fair, Credible, and Fearless Election

The NC emphasized that protecting and strengthening Nepal’s federal, inclusive, democratic republican system is a shared responsibility and urged all political parties to participate actively in the upcoming election.

It has demanded that the Election Commission, government, and stakeholders ensure a fair, credible, and fearless electoral environment.

Condolences for Lives Lost in Gen Z Protests

The NC expressed deep sorrow over the deaths during the September 8 demonstration against corruption and for good governance, noting that 19 young people lost their lives that day.

The party also shared grief over the loss of 57 individuals-including protesters and security personnel-during the September 9 violence, in which hundreds were injured. The attacks resulted in extensive destruction of public institutions, political party offices, historical structures, and private properties across the country.

The Congress paid tribute to those who were declared martyrs, offered condolences to the bereaved families, and demanded appropriate compensation for the deceased and free treatment for the injured.

Affirms Validity of Youth Demands

The party acknowledged that the key issues raised by the Gen Z movement-ending corruption, strengthening good governance, ensuring transparency, and upholding the right to information legitimate concerns reflecting the public mood. The NC reaffirmed its commitment to address these governance issues.

The next meeting of the NC Central Working Committee is scheduled for November 27.