Nepal: Tensions rise ahead of May 17 elections

Event

A clash between Nepalese politicians and the chief justice of the Supreme Court has increased tensions ahead of the upcoming local elections scheduled to occur May 17. The dispute centers around a decision by Chief Justice Sushila Karki to overturn the government's appointment for the position of national police chief. That decision led Deputy Prime Minister Bimalendra Nidhi, a top official in charge of overseeing election security, to resign his post on April 30. Nidhi's resignation could also increase instability in the majority coalition: two of the main parties filed a motion for impeachment against Karki on April 30, which some have considered an attack on the independence of the judiciary; as a result, the Rastriya Prajantatra Party (RPP), which is the group's third-largest party, is reportedly considering leaving the seven-party coalition if the impeachment motion is not withdrawn.

Protests and counter-protests related to the upcoming elections, which have been ongoing for several weeks, are likely to escalate in the run-up to election day on May 17.

Context

Local government elections, to elect 744 representatives, are scheduled to be held in Nepal on Wednesday, May 17. The elections are the first in the country since 1997 and have proven controversial. The Madhesi political party Samyukta Loktantrik Madhesi Morcha (SLMM) organized a month-long protest program in response to the government's announcement on February 21.

Advice

Individuals present in Nepal ahead of and during the elections are advised to remain vigilant, monitor local media, and avoid all political gatherings.