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Nepal: Polls are scheduled to begin today at 9:00 AM local time to elect new members to Nepal’s National Assembly, marking an important step in the country’s parliamentary process. The election is being conducted after months of preparation and coordination, as several seats in the upper house of the Federal Parliament are set to fall vacant from March 4, 2026. Authorities have confirmed that voting will continue until 3:00 PM and will be carried out simultaneously across all seven provinces of the country.

Election Overview and Vacant Seats

The National Assembly election aims to fill 17 seats that will officially become vacant in early March 2026. Although a total of 18 seats were originally expected to be contested, one seat under the Khas Arya category from Koshi Province has already been filled without a vote. This development has slightly reduced the number of contested positions but has not impacted the overall election schedule.

According to the Election Commission, all logistical and administrative preparations have been completed well in advance. Election officials have emphasized that necessary arrangements, including ballot materials, security coordination, and staffing, are in place to ensure a smooth and transparent voting process throughout the day.

Unopposed Election in Koshi Province

One notable development ahead of polling day was the unopposed election of a candidate in Koshi Province. The seat reserved for the Khas Arya category was filled after only one nomination was filed. The candidate, representing the Nepali Congress, was declared elected without contest, making voting unnecessary for that particular position.

Election Commission officials confirmed that no rival candidates had registered nominations for the seat, leading to an automatic win as per election rules. This outcome reduced the number of seats requiring a vote from 18 to 17, streamlining the election process slightly.

Polling Schedule and Designated Voting Centers

Voting for the National Assembly election is taking place from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM local time. The Commission has designated Provincial Election Offices as official polling stations across all seven provinces to maintain uniformity and administrative efficiency.

In Koshi Province, polling has been arranged in Biratnagar, Morang. Madhesh Province voters are casting their ballots at the Mahendra Narayan Nidhi Mithila Cultural Centre in Janakpur Sub-metropolitan City. For Bagmati Province, the polling station has been established at Bhutan Devi Secondary School in Hetauda Sub-metropolitan City, Makawanpur.

Similarly, voters in Gandaki Province are using the Provincial Election Office in Pokhara, Kaski. In Lumbini Province, the polling station is located at the Province Employees’ Meeting Centre in Ghorahi, Dang. Karnali Province voters are participating at the Provincial Election Office in Birendranagar, Surkhet, while Sudurpaschim Province has its polling center at the Provincial Election Office in Dhangadhi, Kailali.

Eligible Voters and Electoral College

Unlike general elections, the National Assembly election follows an indirect voting system. Eligible voters include elected members of Provincial Assemblies, mayors and deputy mayors of municipalities, and chairpersons and vice-chairpersons of rural municipalities. These representatives collectively form the electoral college responsible for choosing National Assembly members.

Each voter’s ballot carries a specific vote weight, ensuring proportional representation from different levels of local and provincial government. This system is designed to balance regional influence while maintaining inclusivity in the upper house.

Impact of Resignations on Vote Weight

The Election Commission has noted a reduction in overall vote weight for this election. This change follows the resignation of several elected representatives who are contesting in the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5. Since resigned officials are no longer eligible to vote, their absence has directly affected the total vote weight calculation.

Officials clarified that despite the reduced vote weight, the election process remains valid and constitutionally sound. Adjustments have been made transparently, and all participating voters have been informed of the revised calculations.

Significance of the National Assembly Election

The National Assembly plays a crucial role in Nepal’s federal parliamentary system by ensuring continuity, stability, and regional representation. Members elected in this cycle will contribute to legislative oversight, policy review, and constitutional responsibilities in the coming years.

With voting underway across all provinces, authorities and observers alike are closely watching the process. The Election Commission has reiterated its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election, reinforcing public trust in democratic institutions.