KATHMANDU: Nepal Communist Party coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda has urged political forces and the public to come together to ensure the country’s upcoming elections are held peacefully and on time.

Addressing a party unity gathering at Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu on Saturday, Mr Dahal said the election scheduled for 21 February, as outlined in the constitution, must proceed without delay. He rejected rumours about the possible reinstatement of parliament and the return of the previous government, calling such claims misleading and confusing for the public.

“Elections are the way forward,” Mr Dahal said, warning that any attempt to seek alternatives could push the country into deeper uncertainty. He accused some groups of trying to obstruct the electoral process and appealed to citizens to stand up for democracy.

Mr Dahal also criticised what he described as attention seeking behavior on social media, saying political stunts online were increasingly being used to mislead people. He stressed that his party wanted to focus on ideas, policies and long-term solutions rather than publicity.

Speaking about young people, particularly Generation Z, he said leadership should not be judged by age alone. According to him, the country can only move forward when young, middle aged and experienced generations work together.

He also raised concerns over restrictions on public gatherings at Kathmandu’s Khula Manch, calling it unfortunate that citizens were being denied access to a historic public space. He urged the government and Kathmandu Metropolitan City to keep the area open for the people.

In remarks that drew attention, Mr Dahal referred to Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah and Dharan’s mayor, saying leaders once seen as “flowers of democracy” now appeared to be turning into “thorns”. He said leaders must understand the nation’s history, political struggles and the sacrifices made by those who fought for change.

Meanwhile, party co-coordinator Madhav Kumar Nepal said the Nepal Communist Party was moving forward with sincerity. He asked voters to give the party a chance to work for the country’s development and called for an honest evaluation of its role in establishing the republic, drafting the constitution and contributing to national progress.