Kathmandu, May 15

The General Election Observation Committee has said the first phase of the local polls held in 34 districts of Province no 3, 4 and 6 saw enthusiastic participation of the people.

As per the preliminary report submitted by GEOC observers deputed to all the polling centres, the first phase of local level elections were conducted in a peaceful environment apart from some isolated incidents in some places, GEOC said in a press statement.

A total of 6,642 polling stations were set up in 283 local units of 34 districts. In many districts, voters were forced to travel on foot for hours as the voting centres were located in faraway places.

GEOC has termed the death of Nakul Bhujel at the polling station set up at Shaktishwor Secondary School in Mejung Village Council on the day of the election, and the death of Kul Bahadur Gurung in Dolakha four days ago in the course of electioneering as ‘unfortunate coincidences’.

The Committee further stated that the security personnel and employees deputed for the elections have fulfilled their duties in coordination.

GEOC sent 290 observers in the districts, towns and village councils.