Restrictions in effect: National Assembly election code of conduct

KATHMANDU: The Election Commission (EC) has implemented the code of conduct for the upcoming National Assembly (NA) election starting from Tuesday.

The regulation, effective from January 16 to 26, applies to all citizens, agencies, and officials.

As per the EC, Section 1 of the Election Code of Conduct, 2079, and Section 22 of the Election Commission Act will be applicable during this period, aligning with the scheduled National Assembly election on January 25.

Key prohibitions during this period include:

Utilization of Public Resources: Parties and candidates are prohibited from using public resources and properties in favor or against each other.

Manipulation of Information: Parties and candidates are not allowed to manipulate or misuse information related to the election.

Use of Election Symbols and Logos: Organizing gatherings, making publicity, and producing materials bearing election symbols and logos are restricted in governmental and public places, including schools and universities.

Mobilization Restrictions: Mobilizing specific groups, such as the elderly, females, children, and members of sexual and gender minorities, to promote elections is prohibited.

Prohibition on Rallies and Demonstrations: Holding rallies, demonstrations, protests, gatherings, seminars, disseminating misinformation on social media platforms, engaging in hate speech, and insulting other candidates to influence the election are strictly prohibited.

Restrictions on Government Officials: Ministers in federal and provincial governments, along with public office bearers involved in the election campaign with permission from the commission, are subject to restrictions. They are reminded of the silence period and restricted from utilizing government resources during this time.

Furthermore, the EC has placed restrictions on ministers in federal and provincial governments, as well as public office bearers involved in the election campaign with permission from the commission. They are reminded of the silence period and restricted from utilizing government resources during this time.