Election Commission Urges Parties, Public Not to Disrupt Poll Campaigns

Kathmandu, Feb 24

The Election Commission (EC) has called on political parties, candidates and the general public to refrain from obstructing election campaign activities of any party or individual candidate.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, EC Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai said the Commission’s attention had been drawn to complaints from various political parties and candidates contesting the March 5 House of Representatives election. The complaints alleged that some groups had attempted to disrupt campaign-related events.

According to the Commission, such incidents have also surfaced through social media platforms, and it has been actively monitoring campaign activities through multiple channels.

The constitutional body reminded stakeholders that obstructing election activities is strictly prohibited under Clause 13, Sub-clause (1), Section (e) of the Election Code of Conduct-2082 BS. The provision clearly states that no individual or group is allowed to disturb or block processions, public meetings, corner assemblies, gatherings or any other events organized by political parties, candidates or their affiliated organizations.

Spokesperson Bhattarai further warned that under the Election (Offences and Punishment) Act-2073 BS, anyone found guilty of obstructing candidacy registration, interfering with election campaigns, or preventing voters from casting their ballots may face a fine of up to Rs 200,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

The Commission emphasized that conducting the upcoming election in a free, fair and peaceful environment is a collective responsibility of political parties, candidates, voters and all concerned stakeholders. It urged everyone to strictly comply with existing federal laws and avoid any actions that could undermine the electoral process.

The EC also clarified that any activity that hinders lawful campaign efforts will be treated as a violation of the Election Code of Conduct and dealt with accordingly.