EC to enforce code of conduct strictly

By Saligram Nepal,Chitwan, Jan. 31: The election code of conduct will be strictly enforced during the House of Representatives election in Chitwan.

The decision was announced at an interaction programme organised by the Office of the Chief Election Officer in Bharatpur on Thursday. The office said strict implementation would begin after political parties and candidates committed to complying with the code of conduct.

At the programme, candidates from all three constituencies of the district pledged to fully follow the code. Speakers stressed that political parties, candidates and journalists all share responsibility for conducting the election by adhering to the code of conduct.

Chief Election Officer Kedarnath Paudel said the office would strictly enforce the rules. “If the code of conduct is violated, a candidate’s nomination may be cancelled depending on the situation. We will first advise and warn them. If they continue to ignore repeated warnings, their candidacy can be cancelled,” he said.

He also said action would be taken against election staff if they were found speaking or behaving in favour of or against any political party. Monitoring will be carried out on the use of flags, vehicles, posters, banners and other campaign materials used by candidates.

Flashy and excessive campaign materials have been banned. Candidates are required to open a separate bank account for election expenses and spend only through that account. The Chief Election Officer said candidates would be compelled to follow this provision.

Keeping in mind the dignity and importance of the national flag, only up to 10 flags may be used at gatherings or events. Monitoring will be carried out if flags are used excessively or displayed in an undignified manner. 

Paudel said candidates may use images of their election symbol in campaign materials but are not allowed to physically carry the symbol during campaigning.

During the programme, some participants criticised alleged discrimination between candidates from large and small parties. Responding to the criticism, Paudel said all candidates have been treated equally so far. He requested that complaints be filed if unequal treatment is found, based on specific individuals or actions.

Chief District Officer Ganesh Aryal said preparations are underway to conduct the election in a peaceful and fear-free manner. He said around 3,500 personnel would be deployed across the district. 

The administration is preparing to ensure the election is free, fair, strategic and conducted without obstruction, manipulation or negative behaviour. He added that everyone must support and cooperate in making the election a grand democratic event.

Aryal also urged local representatives not to use municipal resources for election campaigning. He said the administration is ready to control such activities if local resources are misused. 

Local bodies are allowed to carry out only those programmes listed in their approved “red book”. If any foundation stones or other activities outside the red book are carried out, they will fall under the code of conduct and be monitored.