Nepali Congress (NC) has formally decided to take part in the House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5, 2026, concluding that the ongoing political crisis, constitutional concerns and the demands raised by Gen Z groups can be addressed through the ballot.

A meeting of the party’s Central Working Committee on Friday endorsed the decision, while also agreeing to register the party with the Election Commission for both the National Assembly and lower house elections.

However, the meeting did not clarify whether the registration letter would be submitted under party president Sher Bahadur Deuba’s name or that of acting president Purna Bahadur Khadka. Leaders fear that sending Deuba’s name could grant him greater influence over ticket distribution.

The Congress also urged the government to ensure a secure environment for elections. It called for the immediate recovery of missing weapons and the return of escaped inmates to guarantee safety for voters.

The party, however, failed to settle disputes over the timing of its general convention. With sharp differences persisting, general secretary Gagan Thapa said further discussions would be held.

Although the Congress could not resolve its internal organisational issues, it moved ahead with a key political decision to join the national electoral process before finalising its convention date.