UML to train members in social media usage to counter criticism

KATHMANDU: The Communist Party of Nepal (UML) has announced plans to train its members in using social media effectively through smartphones. This initiative aims to equip members to counter criticism and allegations made against the party on social platforms.

While the members will be trained to promote the party positively, they are strictly prohibited from publicly criticizing party policies or leadership. Violators will face disciplinary action, as warned by the party headquarters.

Party Chair and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed concerns about the increasing cyberattacks, defamation campaigns, and misinformation targeting the UML. He emphasized the need to make members “smart” to counter these issues effectively.

The proposal, prepared by UML Organization Department Chief Kashinath Adhikari for the ward-level campaign, includes a dedicated section titled ‘Countering Cyber Attacks.’

It highlights the importance of training members on the proper use of social media and promoting the party’s achievements online.

The Central Committee has approved this proposal, which will be implemented at the ward level across the country.

The campaign encourages members to actively counter false claims with factual arguments while promoting party policies. However, any posts undermining party policies or leadership will be treated as misconduct.

The proposal states:
“Posting content that creates mistrust in party leadership or policies on social media amounts to anarchy. The ward and local committees will address such actions, and disciplinary measures will be taken as necessary.”

Chair Oli highlighted that the UML has been a primary target of misinformation and baseless propaganda, posing significant challenges to the party and society.

In his report to the Central Committee, Oli stated:  “Misinformation disrupts social harmony, spreads despair among citizens, and creates divisions, often causing mental stress. The misuse of technology for generating deepfakes, AI-generated false content, and malicious propaganda has become a growing threat. For UML, this challenge is even greater as it faces planned and organized disinformation campaigns.”

The party has resolved to launch campaigns to refute such propaganda and build positive narratives around its achievements, using technology as a constructive tool.