Voters' turnout not as per expected: elections postponed in 44 voting centres

KATHMANDU, MAY 13: The Election Commission has said that votes were not cast as expected in the local-level election-2079. As per the EC's preliminary analysis, although the voting was conducted in a peaceful and enthusiastic manner in the country, only 65 percent of votes were cast. It had expected that 68-72 percent turnout of voters.

According to the EC, the highest 75 percent and lowest 50 percent votes were cast. Chief Election Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya said the total turnout of voters was less than EC's expectation, though overall analysis could not be made today itself. The EC has received the preliminary report from around 50,000 election observers of 68 organizations approved by it.

As per the details received as of 6:00 pm, voting was postponed in 44 polling centers of 18 local levels due to disputes and clash. The date for the election in such places would be announced soon, added the EC. Expressing concern over the attitude of political parties and cadres toward winning the election at any cost, Thapaliya said, "It is challenging for democracy. Respective parties, candidates, and cadres should be serious about this issue. Action will be taken against those wrongdoers as per the law."