Let the People Choose Their Local Leaders

We welcome the Election Commission’s (EC) preparations to hold local government elections from late November, beginning with Union Parishad (UP) polls. The commission plans to hold the elections in six or seven phases. Of the country’s 4,581 UPs, 3,981 are scheduled to go to the polls this year, while the rest will follow in 2027 or 2028. After a long period without elected representatives in many local bodies, these polls offer a crucial opportunity to restore grassroots representation and reconnect local government with the people. The real test, however, is whether voters can freely choose leaders who will be accountable to their communities.

That matters because these institutions have a direct bearing on people’s daily lives. They oversee local development, help deliver essential services and manage public resources that affect entire areas. When elected representatives are absent, citizens lose an important channel to question decisions, raise grievances and demand better performance. Administrators may keep institutions running, but they cannot replace the accountability that comes with an elected mandate. Local government works best when those who make decisions have to answer to the people they serve.

That is why voters must have a genuine choice. Local contests can be fiercely competitive, with candidates pursuing strong personal and political interests. But such competition must not turn local polls into an extension of national politics. The government must not use its administrative or political influence to favour particular candidates or groups or to shape the outcome. The EC, meanwhile, must ensure that no party or candidate gets an unfair advantage. Voters should be able to judge candidates by their records, programmes and ability to serve�"not by the power or connections behind them.

The commission has already taken several steps to prepare for the polls, including reviewing election laws, finalising codes of conduct and arranging polling centres. Yet preparations on paper will mean little if the rules are not enforced fairly. Anyone who intimidates voters, buys votes or manipulates the polls must face prompt action. Discussions with political parties can help address legitimate concerns and clarify the rules. Even so, the EC must retain full control of the process and make decisions based on the law and the interests of voters.

The government and law-enforcement agencies also have a clear responsibility. They must ensure that citizens can cast their votes without fear, pressure or obstruction. At the same time, political parties and candidates should respect the local character of these polls. Moreover, the ultimate purpose should not be to deepen political rivalry but to determine who will oversee local development, manage public resources and respond to local needs.

In the end, we expect these elections to do more than fill vacant positions. They must restore people’s right to choose who represents them and holds power in their communities. And that choice must remain free from fear, pressure and interference. Let the people choose their local leaders�"and let their choice count.