National Assembly Election: Code of conduct in effect

KATHMANDU: In force from January 16 to 26, the National Assembly Election Code of Conduct enforces several measures to uphold a just and organized electoral process.

The principal constraints encompass:

1. Responsible Use of Public Resources: Political parties and candidates are expressly forbidden from utilizing public resources and assets to sway the election in their favor.

2. Safeguarding Information Integrity: Political entities are strictly prohibited from distorting or misusing information pertinent to the election.

3. Regulation of Election Symbols and Logos: Convening gatherings, publicizing campaign activities, and crafting materials adorned with election symbols and logos are confined to non-governmental and non-public venues, including schools and universities.

4. Controlled Mobilization: The mobilization of specific demographic groups—such as the elderly, women, children, and individuals from sexual and gender minorities—with the intent to influence the election is not allowed.

5. Ban on Rallies and Demonstrations: Organizing rallies, demonstrations, protests, seminars, or any form of gathering, along with spreading misinformation on social media or engaging in hate speech, is strictly prohibited. Disparaging other candidates to manipulate the election outcome is also forbidden.

6. Constraints on Government Officials: Ministers in federal and provincial governments, as well as public office bearers involved in the election campaign with the commission's authorization, are under constraints. They are reminded of a specified silence period and are barred from utilizing governmental resources during this timeframe.