Election Commission Warning on Obstruction of Campaigning

Kathmandu. A fine of up to Rs 200,000 will be imposed if anyone is found obstructing the election campaign of a different political party or candidate. 

According to the Election Commission, legal provisions dictate that anyone who obstructs, causes obstruction, detains, or causes detention with the intent of depriving someone of their right to campaign or vote in accordance with federal law shall be punished with a fine of Rs 200,000, up to three years of imprisonment, or both.

The Commission stated that it is monitoring the election campaigning of political parties and candidates participating in the House of Representatives election through various means. The Commission noted that it has received complaints and reports regarding obstructions created by other political parties, candidates, party workers, or general citizens through various methods against the election campaigns of certain parties or candidates. Similarly, the Commission expressed its serious concern over such matters brought to light through various media outlets.

The Election Code of Conduct has already been issued regarding the behavior to be followed by political parties, candidates, their sister organizations, and related individuals. The code of conduct stipulates that no one shall disrupt or create any kind of obstruction to processions, mass meetings, corner meetings, sittings, gatherings, or other programs organized by any political party, candidate, or their sister organization.

According to the Election (Offense and Punishment) Act, there is a provision that no person shall be obstructed with the intent of depriving them of the right to candidacy, the right to campaign in accordance with prevailing federal laws related to elections, or the right to vote.

The Commission maintains that it is the responsibility of political parties, candidates, general citizens, and all stakeholders to complete the upcoming election in a free, fair, impartial, and fearless environment.

The Commission has requested all stakeholders not to engage in or cause activities that obstruct others with the intent of depriving them of their right to campaign in accordance with prevailing federal laws related to elections.