CPN-UML Expresses Concern Over Tense Atmosphere Ahead of February 21 By-elections, Alleges Attacks by Rastriya Swatantra Party

Kathmandu. The Communist Party of Nepal (UML) has expressed concern that the atmosphere leading up to the House of Representatives by-elections scheduled for February 21 is becoming tense.

Min Bahadur Shahi, Chief of the UML Publicity Department, alleged that the government has failed to create a reliable environment for peace and security, and that the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is attacking the UML's leadership and election symbol. He stated that as the election approaches, the country is becoming increasingly fearful and tense.

“The government has not been able to make the peace and security environment trustworthy. Our prediction that undesirable activities will increase due to thousands of prisoners and looted weapons remaining outside is proving true,” Shahi said.

Mentioning that the indefinite curfew imposed in Gaur, Rautahat, has spread fear among voters, he demanded that the government ensure the right to vote fearlessly.

Allegation Against RSP for Attempting to Disrupt Elections

Shahi accused the RSP of trying to disrupt the elections. “Once the narrative of 'Vote for Change' weakened, the RSP started engaging in indecent behavior and inciting violence,” he said.

He claimed that attempts are being made to influence public opinion through burning flags, spreading hatred against the leadership, and using 'fake' surveys in areas where key UML leaders are candidates.

Questioning the Role of the Commission Amidst Code of Conduct Violations

The UML raised questions about the role of the Election Commission, stating that the election code of conduct is being violated. Shahi objected to the distribution of T-shirts bearing the pictures of RSP chairman and leaders in the Terai-Madhes districts during the Holi festival.

“The misuse of festivals for the vested interests of a particular party is condemnable. The Election Commission appearing indifferent to such activities makes us suspicious,” he said.

Targeted Attacks on Leaders and Candidates

Shahi stated that physical and mental attacks are being carried out against UML candidates and leaders. He mentioned that campaign materials of candidate Jwala Kumari Sah were vandalized in Bara, and flags were burned and indecent behavior occurred in the constituency of General Secretary Shankar Pokharel in Dang-2.

The UML demanded an immediate halt to such activities and assurance of security for the candidates.

‘Referendum Between Forces That Build the Nation and Forces That Burn It’

Shahi stated that the February 21 election is being viewed as a ‘referendum between the forces that build the nation and the forces that burn the nation.’

According to him, despite any conspiracy, the UML will emerge as the most popular and the first party. He claimed that after February 21, the country will move towards fulfilling the national aspiration of ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’ under the leadership of party Chairman KP Sharma Oli.

The UML clarified that it respects press and expression freedom but opposes misleading propaganda. An appeal was made to journalists and civil society to play a role in ensuring a clean and impartial election.

Claim of Majority

Shahi claimed that the UML will be the most popular party in the upcoming elections and will form the government with a majority. According to him, 1.45 to 1.5 million UML leaders and workers are actively campaigning across the country.

“Workers have reached the doorsteps of the people from Taplejung to Darchula and from Jhapa to Kanchanpur. There is no question of the most favored party being afraid to hold mass meetings or meet the people,” he said.

Youth-Targeted Program

Shahi claimed that implementing the announcement to provide 10 GB of data monthly to youth aged 18 to 28 years will not impose a significant financial burden. He clarified that the goal is ‘democratic regulation’ of social media, not a ban.

Shahi stated that the discussion about some leaders leaving the party is a ‘misconception created out of panic over the wave of support for the UML.’ He claimed that Janardan Dhakal of Rasuwa and Ramveer Manandhar of Kathmandu were already under disciplinary action or not part of the formal structure. – News Agency Nepal