Kathmandu. Prime Minister Sushila Karki delivered an address to the nation today.

She will address the upcoming elections to the House of Representatives on March 4 and the conflict in the Middle East.

Today I would like to share with you a few thoughts on a special occasion.

Our country has once again reached a critical juncture in history.

On March 4, we will decide the future of ourselves and our country.

But before that, our cultural festival Holi i.e. Fagu Purnima has fallen. This celebration of colours and the preparations for the election are both equally meaningful for us.

You all remember the time I took up this responsibility.

The situation in the aftermath of the Gen-G movement was complex, sensitive and challenging. There was anger among the youth on the streets, fear in everyone’s mind and the future of the country was uncertain.

Our first duty was to manage that difficult transition, lead the country towards a peaceful exit from the violent turning and return it to the path of constitution.

Today, I am satisfied that we have come this far after crossing that difficult transition. We have been able to move steadily on the path of constitution by establishing the rule of law. This achievement is the result of patience and cooperation of all of you, all of us Nepalis.

Now my first request is that you voters have

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All voters should participate in the upcoming elections so as to take the country ahead on the path of political stability and prosperity.

Voting is not just about stamping the election symbol and sending someone to victory. It’s a decision you make about your future and that of your children.

Therefore, I heartily appeal to you all to go to your polling station and cast your vote on Thursday, March 21, even if you have no other work.

Secondly, I request one and all to maintain peace and tranquility in this phase of the election. Peace is the real identity of Nepal.

There will be healthy competition in elections, there will be different views, but there should be no discord and enmity among us.

I would like to thank all the political parties and independent candidates in the fray for their candidacy. Your activism will keep our democracy alive.

I also urge all the political parties, candidates and supporters to abide by discipline during the silence period and conduct the election campaign in a restrained and respectful manner.

I would like to extend special thanks to the Election Commission, security personnel and all civil servants who are involved in this great work. Your impartiality and hard work will make this election free, free and fearless.

The Election Commission has completed all preparations as per the schedule in a short and difficult time. The Government of Nepal and EC are fully committed to conducting the elections in a free, fair and fear-free manner.

The provincial and local governments have significantly supported the election preparations within their borders.

All the four security mechanisms of the government have mobilized all their resources to ensure security in the upcoming elections.

Personally, I and the present government would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Right Honorable President for the support extended by his guardians.

We have received enthusiastic support and feedback from friendly countries and international organizations for Nepal’s ability to conduct elections in a short span of time.

I would like to thank our friendly nations for providing physical, cash and technical support in election management. We are also grateful for the support received from the UN agencies.

I would like to inform you that the government is keeping a watch on the elements trying to tarnish the environment by spreading baseless and artificial content and misleading prophecies through some means of social media and mass media.

Also, I humbly urge all the citizens not to fall into illusions, not to go after such elements and to discharge the historic responsibility that comes before the nation responsibly.

Today, I want to assure the entire country that this government will not promote impunity in any way. The government will not back down from taking action at any level that needs to be taken in accordance with the law.

Third, about our celebration.

We are celebrating Holi or Fagu Purnima on the eve of elections. On this auspicious occasion, I would like to extend my heartiest best wishes to all Nepalis at home and abroad.

This festival of colours carries the message of unity, harmony and enthusiasm. It strengthens the diversity in our society.

May the election colours and the colours of Holi together spread new enthusiasm in the country.

But I urge you to exercise restraint while celebrating Holi and not wear colour against anyone’s wishes.

Fourth, a serious issue.

Today, on the other side of the world, the crisis of war in the Middle East is deepening. The tensions in and around Iran are troubling to us.

The government of Nepal is closely observing the developments. The safety of our Nepali brothers and sisters and youths residing there is a matter of great concern for us.

All Nepali missions in the area have been activated to ensure that there is no lapse in security arrangements, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring.

We are always with you. The present government is committed to protecting the personal safety and interests of every citizen wherever Nepalese reside.

In the end, I consider it my responsibility towards my motherland to lead the country at this difficult juncture in history.

I have always tried to stand up for justice and integrity. In a few days, the reins of this country will be in the hands of the representatives you choose.

Let’s share the joy of Holi. Let’s make the March 21 election peaceful, fair and historic.