Resovle outstanding issues prior to polls: Carter Centre

The Carter Centre, a US based organisation dedicated for democracy, peace and governance Friday appraised the strides made towards holding the polls in Nepal, but said that it was still concerned about the multiple outstanding issues yet to be addressed if the elections are to be held in November-December.

Issuing a statement based on the findings and observation of its international election observation mission in Nepal Friday, the CC said that the government must sustain focus on electoral preparations while continuing dialogue to resolve demands made by the marginalized groups and implement an effective public security plan.

"The Center encourages the government of Nepal to focus on the common purpose of creating a conducive environment for the constituent assembly election, including action on all outstanding electoral legislation and decisions together with the new election date following widespread consultation and buy-in from marginalized groups," the CC said.

Likewise, the statement has also urged the government to continue and strengthen its effort towards "the swift resolution of key relevant issues regarding Madhesis, Janajatis, women, Dalits, and other marginalized groups".

"The Center reiterates the need for all stakeholders to come together to develop and implement a comprehensive and effective public security plan in order to ensure a secure environment for the Constituent Assembly election," the statement read.

"The Carter Center notes the importance of local level participation in the political and electoral process and supports any activities that expand the opportunities for grassroots activism and outreach".

The Center has lauded all sides for the progress reached so far including the eight party agreement regarding a late November/early December timeframe for the polls, resumption of the interim legislature-parliament proceedings and registration of a second bill to amend the interim constitution and discussions in the State Affairs Committee on the Constituent Assembly electoral system, which it said, indicated that the political deadlock of the past several months was potentially coming to an end.

"The Center reiterates its view that there is an urgent need for joint action towards a set of common goals: sustaining focus on electoral preparations and passing critical legislation, continuing substantive dialogue with marginalized groups, implementing an effective public security plan, and encouraging political and electoral activity at the local level".