'Election code crucial for fair polls'

By Rammani Dahal,Makawanpur, Feb. 19: Bagmati Province Chief Minister Indra Bahadur Baniya has said that elections are essential for sustainable development and prosperity in the country. 

Speaking at an interaction programme on the effective implementation of the election code of conduct and the role of stakeholders, organised by the Election Commission Nepal and the Nepal Law Society in Hetauda on Tuesday, he said that holding elections in a fear-free environment remains a challenge in terms of peace and security.

He stated that it is his responsibility to ensure that elections are conducted in a free and fair environment, without fear, and affirmed that the provincial government was ready to provide the necessary coordination and support for their successful conduct.

Chief Minister Baniya, who also serves as Bagmati Province President of the Nepali Congress, said that all parties would fully support the elections. He added that elections are vital for the future of Nepal and its people.

He noted that certain active factions in society are spreading incitement and that there have been reports of increasing security challenges surrounding the elections. 

“There is a significant divide between those who want elections and those who do not,” he said, adding that although some factions oppose the current elections, they are essential to place the country on the right path and to strengthen democracy.

He stressed that complying with the election code of conduct is the responsibility of political parties, candidates, civil servants and all levels of government. He pledged that he and the provincial administration would adhere strictly to the code to ensure dignified and orderly elections. He added that close cooperation and coordination among all three tiers of government is necessary for successful elections, and that the provincial government would fully support the Election Commission.

Election Commissioner Sagun Shumsher JBR said that the Commission’s ultimate goal is to conduct the upcoming House of Representatives elections in a free and fair manner.

He described the elections as a national festival and said that, as they are now the country’s foremost priority, it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure their success.

 “Violations of the code of conduct may occur knowingly or unknowingly, but we will strictly prevent any breaches,” he said, adding that action will be taken against anyone found in violation.

Hetauda Sub-Metropolitan City Mayor Meena Kumari Lama stressed that it is everyone’s responsibility to make the elections credible and highlighted the importance of complying with the code of conduct.

Makawanpur Chief District Officer Basanta Adhikari said that the misuse of social media has become a challenge during elections and urged the Commission to raise awareness regarding its use, particularly during the silent period.

Chitwan Chief District Officer Ganesh Aryal said the Commission should take a strict approach to issues including the implementation of the code of conduct, noting that it is not only about conducting elections but also about ensuring public confidence that they were held fairly.

At the programme, Commission Joint Secretary Rajendra KC delivered a presentation on the role of stakeholders in implementing the election code of conduct, while former Chief Justice of Madhesh Province Surendra Kumar Mahato presented on election expenditure management.