Kathmandu, April 10 -- The government has shown little interest in holding by-elections for 30 vacant positions in provincial assemblies and local governments. At present, 17 provincial assembly seats and 13 local posts, including mayors, deputy mayors, chairs and vice-chairs, remain vacant.

Although the constitution mandates filling such vacancies through by-elections, the government has not even initiated discussions with the Election Commission.

Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari said there has been no consultation so far. He said holding by-elections depends largely on the government's will.

"The constitution and laws require vacancies to be filled through by-elections," he said, adding that the government must ...