In the context of the upcoming House of Representatives election on March 5, the National Human Rights Commission has urged the Government of Nepal and all relevant parties to fully comply with the Election Code of Conduct, make the election human rights-friendly, and respect the human rights of citizens.
The Commission, through a press release dated March 1, informed that it had formed monitoring teams and conducted pre-election monitoring in 42 districts. The monitoring teams deployed from the Commission’s central and provincial offices observed the election preparations and compliance with the Code of Conduct at the offices of the Election Officers, and also held discussions with the Chief Election Officers, Chief District Officers, and security agencies regarding the state of peace and security. The press release also mentions that during monitoring, the Commission collected information from political parties, candidates, and voters.
The Commission recalled that it has monitored elections since the past elections, and based on the findings, it has made necessary recommendations to the concerned authorities to ensure that elections are conducted in a human rights-friendly manner. It further stated that on the day of the upcoming election, March 5, various monitoring teams will again be deployed across the country.
During its pre-election monitoring, the Commission observed that candidates had not fully complied with the Election Code of Conduct. The press release mentions the following facts: in different parts of the country, children participated in rallies and assemblies, journalists were threatened or assaulted, physical use of election symbols contrary to the Code of Conduct occurred, and campaign materials and flags were placed in private homes without permission.
The press release also highlights that local and provincial government officials participated in election campaigning, candidates used excessive vehicles without permission, attempts were made to unduly influence voters, party workers and supporters misused social media to insult each other, and adequate voter education did not reach marginalized communities. However, the Commission positively noted the mutual cordiality among party leaders and candidates, the security vigilance by security agencies, and the preparations carried out by election officials and local administration.
Therefore, since the role of everyone is crucial to conduct the upcoming election in a peaceful, fear-free, and human rights-friendly manner, the Commission has urged all parties to exercise patience and restraint. It also appealed to avoid misuse of social media, refrain from producing or publishing/propagating insulting content, strengthen peace and security, and prevent any potential undesirable activities, as stated in the press release issued by Dr. Tikaram Pokharel.