KATHMANDU, Jan 28, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Nepal's Election Commission said 
Wednesday it is ready to hold elections as planned, despite concerns over 
weather conditions in high-altitude Himalayan regions when the vote takes 
place on March 5.

The poll follows deadly anti-corruption protests in September that toppled 
the previous government, prompting an accelerated election schedule and an 
unusual early-year date for voting.

"As of today, we are prepared to conduct the election in all locations," the 
commission's assistant spokesman, Prakash Nyaupane, told AFP, saying 
logistical, administrative and security arrangements were progressing as 
planned.

The elections were called after an interim government was formed to guide the 
nation of 30 million people following the resignation of veteran leader KP 
Sharma Oli.

Former chief justice Sushila Karki, 73, is serving as interim prime minister 
until the vote.

Nyaupane said the commission had consulted with political parties about the 
date, and "there is no alternative to this."

"If we do not hold the elections on March 5, it will invite more trouble."

Nepal, home to eight of the world's 10 highest peaks including Mount Everest, 
faces particular challenges as many high-altitude areas may be snowbound that 
early in the year.

Previous elections have typically been held in November, when the weather is 
milder.

"We are moving ahead with preparations to hold the elections in all 
districts," Nyaupane said, adding that helicopters will be used in five high-
altitude districts for voting logistics.

"It is a challenge for us if the climate is not favourable in Himalayan 
districts."

There are about 18.9 million eligible voters, including more than 800,000 
first-time voters, who could cast ballots in 10,967 polling booths.

The elections will determine the makeup of the 275-seat House of 
Representatives, the lower chamber of parliament, with 165 members chosen in 
a direct vote and 110 through party lists.

A total of 3,406 candidates have registered their names for the direct seats, 
according to the commission.