KATHMANDU: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya suggested political parties and candidates vying in the upcoming local level election to comply with the election code of conduct. The local level election is slated for May 13 this year in a single phase.
At a program organized by the Election Commission (EC) of Nepal on the 6th Election Day here Saturday, CEC Thapaliya warned that the reprimand and punishment for violation of election code of conduct would be severe.
Comparing election with football, he said that political parties and candidates come to ground to contest like players come to ground to play football. “The Commission plays the role of the referee,” he said, adding that the commission should be a watchdog if the political parties and candidates contesting the poll flout the rules and regulations.
According to him, there are over 250,000 election observers for the upcoming election. “We wish we do not have to show red card to any political parties and candidates vying the contest for flouting the code of conduct.” Suggesting to EC employees and subordinate bodies to carry out activities taking the preparation of the election as an opportunity, Thapaliya said.
Similarly, Election Commissioner Dr Janaki Tuladhar pointed out the need of collaboration and coordination ensuring the consent of all sides as election is the foundation of democracy. Likewise, Commissioner Sagun Shumsher Rana said that it was necessary to work in a collective way to make the election a success.
Election Commission’s Secretary Gokarna Mani Duwadi said we all should support the commission in taking up the responsibility for conducting elections in a free, fair and fearless environment. Also speaking on the same occasion, EC Spokesperson Shaligram Sharma Poudel recommended to work in a way arrears would not be piled up and also to create environment for election.
Chief Commissioner Thapaliya shared that the commission declared to award 10 long-term serving and best performing employees.
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