Election Code of Conduct Comes Into Force, Bars Use of Children and State Resources

Kathmandu, Jan 4: With 60 days remaining until the House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5, the Election Commission has enforced a code of conduct restricting the misuse of state resources and the involvement of children in election-related activities.

Under the code, government, semi-government and public institutions are prohibited from carrying out any activities in support of or against political parties or candidates. Resources under ongoing projects cannot be used for electoral purposes, and no actions are allowed that may hinder election management, voter education programmes, or damage or alter election-related materials and information.

The code further bans the use of government and public institutions, including universities, schools and colleges, for election meetings or publicity. It also prohibits the production, use, sale, distribution or display of clothing or symbolic materials—such as jackets, T-shirts, caps, stickers, badges or logos—bearing party or candidate election symbols.

Political campaigning on private property is allowed only with the consent of the property owner. Importantly, the code strictly forbids the use of children in any form of election publicity.

In addition, election activities such as rallies, processions, public meetings or gatherings must not obstruct public movement. The dissemination of false, misleading or hateful information through any media, including social media platforms, has also been prohibited.