NA election code comes into effect from today

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Jan. 16: As the National Assembly election is approaching, the Election Commission Nepal said it would enforce the election code of conduct effective from January 16.

The ECN announced the enforcement of the code of conduct as per the decision of its meeting held on Sunday. 

The ECN said that the election code of conduct would be effective from January 16 to 26 according to the Election Commission Act-2073 BS Clause 22 and the Election Code of Conduct -2079 BS Clause (1) Sub-clause (2). The NA election is scheduled for January 25.

ECN Spokesperson Salik Ram Sharma Paudel informed that the code of conduct would be valid during the given timeframe to the government offices as well as all citizens, agencies and officials. According to the code of conduct, the use of public resources and property for or against any election candidate is strictly prohibited. Distortion of election-related contents and information, as well as the use of government schools or publications for electioneering, are also prohibited.  

It also restricted the production, sale, distribution, and publicity of materials bearing election symbols or party logos. The use of children, and character assassination in election-related publicity involving women, senior citizens, disabled individuals, and members of sexual and gender minorities are also prohibited.

The ECN restricted various activities such as processions, general assemblies, corner meetings, and election promotional activities. 

Spreading false, misleading, or malicious information on social media, engaging in hate speech, and insulting other candidates to influence the election is also prohibited.

Maintaining the confidentiality of voters, refraining from disputes with voters or election staff at polling stations, and avoiding actions that compromise the impartiality and fairness of the election are mandatory during the period.

It said the ministers of the federal and provincial governments, along with public office bearers involved in the election campaign, would not be allowed to use government resources without permission from the commission.