Political leaders, activists and general public have been excited after the government on Monday announced to hold the local elections on May 14, after a gap of two decades.

Political parties are preparing to start their campaigns while leaders and cadres are active on social media calling for popular support. In Chitwan, the Nepali Congress,

the CPN-UML, the CPN (Maoist Centre) and the Rastriya Prajatantra Party have started door-to-door campaigns.

“We were somehow sure about the local elections happening. Announcement of the date has added to our excitement to carry out our election campaign,” said NC Chitwan President Jit Narayan Shrestha.

In Nawalparasi, local residents are elated that they would be able to elect their local representatives for the first time since 1997.

In Kaski, political parties, civil society members and locals welcomed the government’s decision. Toran Chhetri of Ghandruk said all the parties should be united to make the elections a success. People hope for an end to corruption at the local level after the people’s representatives oversee them.

“The local administration is run by a couple of employees,” said Lal Prasad Bhandari of Dhampus, pointing to the absence of people’s representatives to carry out development works and to address public grievances.

Advocate Juna Kumari Gurung advised the government to take the dissatisfied groups and parties on board.

In Parbat, Gulmi, Arghakhanchi and Lamjung districts, political parties have started poll-related activities. Parbat NC Chairman Khim Prasad Bhusal said they have initiated their electoral campaign. Laxmi Adhikari, chairperson of the Beshisahar Mother’s Group, said the occasion should be utilised for women’s empowerment.

(With inputs from our local correspondents)