Election Preparations complete, but digital code of conduct enforcement remains a challenge

February 28, Kathmandu: Preparations for Nepal’s House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5 are complete, but enforcing the code of conduct on digital platforms has emerged as a major challenge, election monitoring organizations said.

Four key organizations involved in election observation—the National Election Observation Committee, NGO Federation Nepal, General Election Observation Committee, and Election Observation Committee Nepal—shared their findings at a press conference in Kathmandu on Saturday.

The observers reported a surge in hate speech and disinformation (fake news) on social media, along with negative campaigning by candidates. They also noted continued use of children in rallies and promotional activities despite restrictions from the Election Commission.

Candidates were found to be exceeding legal spending limits, with risks of concealing actual expenditures. Voter education remains largely limited to traditional methods, with insufficient outreach in rural areas.

The monitoring organizations urged the Election Commission to take immediate action against violations of the code of conduct and called on security agencies to ensure a safe, intimidation-free environment.

With the silent period already in effect since the night of March 2, the groups also appealed to all stakeholders to maintain decorum.