The main opposition party, which is portrayed by the Madhes-based parties as opposed to their agendas, is making extensive preparations for its Mechi-Mahakali Campaign scheduled to begin on March 4.

Fearing possible disruption by the regional parties, the CPN-UML is working to ensure security during the 15-day entourage across the plains.

An extensive orientation programme has started for around a thousand volunteers from Kathmandu Valley to be deployed for the campaign. They have been instructed to focus on the security of the party leadership including Chairman KP Sharma Oli.

Party leaders briefed them at the UML headquarters in Dhumbarahi on Monday. In a show of force ahead of the elections, the UML expects thousands of people to gather at every campaign stop.

Oli earlier urged people not to obstruct the campaign scheduled long ago. According to UML leaders, the party fears obstruction from the Madhesi forces after the government announced the local polls without their consent, especially when they have launched street protests.

The UML chair said the government was forced to announce the date of local polls but was reluctant to actually hold the elections fearing that the UML would emerge as the most powerful force.

In a closed briefing session for the volunteers that followed, Oli said they would not have to wait for the orders in two situations—illness and security threat. “If anyone senses a security threat, s/he must act immediately,” Oli instructed them.

Secretary Pradip Gyawali said the party would let Madhesi leaders air their views at their programmes if they wished.