Nepal’s electoral landscape is heating up ahead of the March 5 polls, but the Election Commission is drawing sharp criticism for its lax approach to code of conduct breaches. The Election Observation Committee (NEOC) has issued a stern ultimatum after reviewing the commission’s one-month performance report, demanding swift enforcement or face court battles.
Implemented on January 19 after deliberations with parties and citizens, the code aimed to ensure fair play. Yet, in 35 days, the commission has processed hundreds of complaints by merely seeking clarifications in 79 instances—without any follow-up action. Nine offenders received second notices for repeated violations.
Take the case of Ashika Tamang, Rashtriya Swatantra Party hopeful from Dhading-1. Accused first of school-based campaigning and later of involving students, her explanations fell short twice over, but the commission stopped at more letters.
‘Violations haven’t decreased; they’ve gone digital and become stealthier,’ declared NEOC’s Gopal Krishna Siwakoti. He stressed proactive penalties before polls to deter misconduct. Krishna Subedi, another NEOC leader, added that waiting for damage control isn’t an option—they’ll petition the Supreme Court if needed.
This impasse highlights deeper concerns over electoral oversight in Nepal. As campaigns ramp up on social media and beyond, the commission’s hesitancy could undermine voter trust. Stakeholders are watching closely, ready to escalate if reforms don’t materialize soon.