Election Commissioner Warns Against Premature Results and Exit Polls Ahead of Vote

Kathmandu. Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari has stated that the commission is seriously concerned about the act of speculating on election results or publishing exit polls.

Speaking at a discussion on voter education and publicity organized in Kathmandu on Tuesday, he clarified that such activities confuse the independent decision-making right of the voters.

Bhandari stated that speculating on victory or defeat before voting discourages candidates and disrupts the environment for healthy competition. 'Publishing results based on speculation raises questions about the impartiality of the election,' he said, 'Such acts are against the election code of conduct, so no one should publish exit polls.' He also urged the media to fulfill their responsibility as the fourth estate, exercise restraint, and uphold the dignity of the election.

Indicating the increasing misuse of technology recently, Chief Commissioner Bhandari warned against spreading misleading content on social media using Artificial Intelligence (AI). He noted that while technology facilitates the flow of information, its misuse carries the risk of undermining the election itself.

Stating that ensuring the success of the House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21 is the shared constitutional duty of all, he also advised exercising press freedom while keeping in mind the voters' right to privacy. The commission expects a positive role from all stakeholders in conducting the election in a clean and fear-free environment.