KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 6 Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa said the party is preparing simultaneously for its 15th general convention and the March 5 House of Representatives (HoR) election. Speaking at a press meet organized by the Nepal Press Union Sarlahi chapter on Saturday, Thapa acknowledged concerns over the tight schedule, noting that the convention slated for next month leaves limited time for election preparations. He said the party is accelerating work on both fronts. Thapa admitted the party lost valuable time debating whether to hold the general convention before the election, but with the decision now made, he urged leaders and members to focus fully on execution. He said the party agreed to the March 5 election date to avoid further complications for the constitution and stressed the need to dispel doubts surrounding the poll. Thapa also informed the government about potential security risks posed by escaped inmates and weapons looted during the September protests. He said the government must act firmly to curb criminal activities and ensure a safe environment for elections. Thapa also referred to Friday's all-party meeting called by Prime Minister Sushila Karki, where political forces urged that all communities and parties be ensured participation in the upcoming election. He further shared that he will begin his campaign for NC president with new policies and messages, and confirmed he will contest the next election from Kathmandu Valley. (With inputs from RSS)