KATHMANDU: The election silence period has come into effect from 12:00 am today, in accordance with the election code of conduct.
Officiating Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari said strict monitoring will be carried out to ensure full compliance with the code during the silence period. The Election Commission (EC) has warned that any violation of the code will result in legal action.
On Monday, Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal visited the EC office to review preparations for the House of Representatives (HoR) elections scheduled for March 5. He was briefed on overall election arrangements, including plans for the transportation of ballot boxes after voting concludes.
The Home Minister stated that security measures have been further strengthened during the silence period. He and EC officials discussed election security, enforcement of the code of conduct, and coordination among security agencies.
Minister Aryal assured that adequate security arrangements are in place to enable voters to cast their ballots confidently. He emphasized that all security agencies and concerned bodies are working in coordination to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful election.
According to the election schedule, voting will take place on March 5 from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.
What is prohibited?
As per the election code of conduct, the silence period remains in force from 48 hours before voting until the completion of polling. During this time, any activity that may influence voters, including campaigning, speeches, public gatherings, discussions, reviews, or related events, is strictly prohibited.
The Commission has stated that soliciting votes, publishing promotional materials, posting messages, or engaging in activities aimed at influencing voters is not allowed.
Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari warned that if financial transactions intended to influence the election are detected during the silence period, the candidate’s nomination may be canceled, and the individual could be barred from participating in any election process for up to six years. The Commission has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward violations.
The silence period is intended to ensure a clean, free, and fair voting environment, allowing voters to make independent decisions without pressure or inducement. It also provides election management bodies and security agencies with time to complete logistical preparations, maintain peace and order, and create a fear-free atmosphere for polling.
During this period, polling stations are finalized, voter queue management is arranged, and the overall security situation is assessed. The code of conduct requires candidates and political parties to remove election symbols and campaign materials within 300 meters of polling stations before the silence period begins.
The Commission has also prohibited the use of electronic and social media platforms, including SMS, Facebook, and Viber, to seek votes or conduct campaign activities. Likewise, the publication or broadcast of news or information that promotes any candidate or political party is not permitted during the silence period.
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