Voting for the new leadership of the Nepali Congress began at 7 am on Friday. Delegates are gathering to elect the party’s president, office-bearers, and Central Working Committee members.
This election is part of the party’s 15th General Convention. Originally set for Thursday, polling was delayed due to issues with preparing and printing ballot papers. The Election Committee rescheduled the voting for Friday morning to ensure everything was ready.
Over 7,000 Delegates to Vote
A total of 7,317 delegates are participating in the convention and can vote in the leadership election, as reported on Friday. This voting process will decide the party’s leadership and members of its central decision-making body.
The election includes positions for party president, vice-presidents, general secretaries, joint general secretaries, and Central Working Committee members.
The Nepali Congress has updated its party rules, increasing the Central Working Committee to 297 members, including 25 office-bearers. This change aims to represent various communities, regions, and organizational groups.
Voting Rescheduled Due to Delays
The election faced multiple delays on Thursday because the ballot papers were not ready. The Election Committee noted that issues at the printing press hindered preparations, causing the polling to be postponed.
After assessing the situation, the committee decided to start voting at 7 am on Friday. This new schedule was designed to prevent a late start and allow delegates to finish voting during the day.
These delays frustrated many delegates, who were eager to vote and return to their home districts before the Dashain festival.
Polling Locations and Voting Process
The Election Committee has set up designated polling centers and instructed delegates to vote based on their assigned province or category.
Voters must confirm their identities and check their names on the official voter list before casting their ballots. The committee has also provided guidelines on items that are not allowed in polling areas.
Vote counting will begin after polling ends. The results will shape the new Central Working Committee and leadership of the Nepali Congress for the upcoming term.
This election is a crucial step for the Nepali Congress as it chooses its leadership amid discussions on representation, party unity, and future political direction.