Why vote? This is the question many people are asking on the eve of the May 13 local election. Pratik Ghimire of ApEx put the same question—plus a few more—to Ila Sharma, former commissioner at the Election Commission.

Why is local election important?

It is important to decentralize the centralized power. Without local elections, there won’t be any local governments, which will deprive us of government services at our doorsteps. It is also crucial for local development because the respective villages know what model of development is necessary in their areas, not Kathmandu.

Why should people vote in local elections?

By voting we elect our representatives so that they can govern us. If we don't vote, there will be no grounds to complain against the incompetence of the ruling representatives. So to send progressive candidates, who you think can bring about meaningful reforms in your area, you must vote.

What is the historical trajectory of voter turnout in Nepal?

Studies suggest that the voter turnout of developing countries is better than that of developed countries. We have a similar case here. We have a good voter turnout. People in developing countries are mostly fed up with the political situation and incompetence of their leaders. This encourages them to vote and try alternative leadership.

What reforms do you advocate in our electoral system?

There are a lot of things. We can write a book on it. But the important ones are curbing electoral expenses, guaranteeing inclusiveness, and adopting an electronic voting system.

Our constitution says that there should be at least one female candidate for the post of mayor/chairperson or deputy mayor/vice-chairperson. But it also says, this provision only applies if a single party fields candidates for both the posts—and it does not apply to a coalition of parties. This has significantly undercut the participation of female and other marginalized communities.

Likewise, if electronic voting were introduced, no vote would be wasted.

Also, there are issues of incorporating ‘none of the above’ (NOTA) voting option on ballot papers and ensuring voting for Nepali immigrants. 

How would you compare Nepal’s grassroots democracy, say, with the same in the rest of South Asia?

On paper, we offer a lot of promise. But in practice, there are many things that need to be improved. Yet, compared to other South Asian countries, we are doing well as our grassroots democracy is more powerful than that of India or Bangladesh.