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Nepal Braces for Turbulent Elections Amidst Escalating Protests

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. bulent-elections-amidst-escalating-protests.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 2:23 GMT by Channel NewsAsia Singapore
      Locales: Bagmati Province, Koshi Province, Madhesh Province, Gandaki Province, NEPAL

KATHMANDU, Nepal - February 16th, 2026 - Nepal is navigating a turbulent pre-election period marked by escalating protests, violent clashes between rival political factions, and a significant increase in security measures. These events cast a long shadow over the upcoming polls, scheduled for November 26-27th, and raise serious questions about the potential for a free and fair election, as well as the future political stability of the Himalayan nation.

The current unrest builds on a pattern of political instability that has plagued Nepal for decades. The dissolution of parliament earlier in 2024 - a consequence of intense power struggles between the Prime Minister and the President - precipitated this latest electoral cycle. While elections are intended to provide a pathway to resolution, the heightened tensions are actively threatening to derail the democratic process.

Reports from across the country indicate a worrying trend of escalating violence. Just last week, on Monday, February 9th, police deployed tear gas in Kathmandu to quell demonstrations targeting a prominent candidate, highlighting the depth of discontent and the willingness of protestors to disrupt the campaign. Similar, albeit scattered, incidents of clashes between supporters of opposing parties have been reported in multiple districts. Local authorities confirm these clashes aren't isolated incidents, but part of a concerning pattern.

The Election Commission of Nepal (ECN) has issued urgent appeals to all political parties, imploring them to conduct their campaigns peacefully and to abstain from any activities that could potentially incite further violence. "We are monitoring the situation very closely and will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone found to be in violation of the election code of conduct," stated Election Commissioner Ishana Pokharel in a press conference on Friday. However, the effectiveness of these appeals remains questionable given the prevailing atmosphere.

The government has responded to the deteriorating situation by deploying additional security forces nationwide. This increased presence aims to safeguard both candidates and voters, ensuring they can participate in the election without fear of intimidation or violence. The scale of the deployment is significant, particularly in areas identified as hotspots for political unrest. While the government maintains this is a necessary measure to uphold the integrity of the election, critics argue that a heavy-handed security approach could further exacerbate tensions and potentially suppress legitimate dissent.

This election is widely regarded as pivotal for Nepal's future. The nation has endured years of political instability characterized by frequent changes in government, hindering consistent economic development and social progress. The outcome of these elections will likely determine whether Nepal can finally achieve a period of sustained stability and focus on long-term growth. Several major parties are vying for power, and the contest is expected to be fiercely competitive, contributing to the heightened tensions.

Analysts suggest that the underlying causes of the unrest are multifaceted. Beyond the immediate power struggle, long-standing grievances relating to socio-economic inequality, ethnic tensions, and a perceived lack of government accountability contribute to the volatile climate. These issues are being exploited by various political actors seeking to mobilize support and gain an advantage in the upcoming elections.

Furthermore, the rise of social media is playing a complex role. While providing a platform for political discourse, it is also being used to spread misinformation, fuel animosity, and incite violence. The ECN is struggling to effectively monitor and regulate online content, adding another layer of complexity to the challenge of maintaining a fair and peaceful election.

Looking ahead, the crucial next few weeks will be critical. Maintaining security, enforcing the election code of conduct, and fostering a climate of dialogue and tolerance are paramount. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, and their presence could play a vital role in ensuring the credibility of the elections. The future of Nepal's democratic journey hangs in the balance.