Asian Network for Free Elections Raises Serious Questions on Recent Election Process and Management

Kathmandu. The international election observation organization Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) has raised serious questions about the process and management of the recently concluded election.

At a program organized in the capital on Wednesday, the organization publicized facts ranging from weak voter education in the last election to a lack of freedom during election observation.

The organization's Chief Election Analyst MS Rona Kartos stated that the Election Commission's preparations were inadequate and that the behavior of security personnel during observation affected the work. She mentioned that a lack of inclusivity and transparency was observed in the election process, and various obstacles were created in access and participation. ANFREL concludes that there was a particular lack of necessary materials and facilitation for persons with disabilities.

According to Kartos, the government did not pay adequate attention to sign language interpreters, 'subtitles' in audio-visual materials, and other assistive technologies during the election. She informed that discussions with human rights and disability rights organizations also concluded that the election materials were not voter-friendly for all segments of the population.

The report mentions that voter education programs were not effective and accessible to all. ANFREL has also prioritized the issue of observers not receiving easy access to polling stations on election day.

Kartos stated that observers were barred from entering centers due to some security personnel not having clear information about the rights and roles of election observers. She informed that in some places, even after gaining entry, they were not allowed to stay for more than 10 minutes, and obstruction was created in independent observation. The organization concludes that such behavior negatively impacted the impartial monitoring of the election.