Formal dialogue with parties
In recent meetings at the commission’s central office in Kathmandu, ECN officials have briefed registered parties on the election timetable, candidate nomination process, and rules for campaigning. Parties have been asked to nominate focal persons for liaison with election officials at federal and district levels. The commission has signalled that repeated violations of the code of conduct could lead to warnings, fines, or other legal measures.
Key issues raised
Participants in the consultations highlighted several areas of concern. Opposition and smaller parties expressed worries about potential use of government vehicles, staff, and public programmes to benefit ruling forces during the campaign. Others stressed the need for clear limits on wall paintings, rallies near schools and hospitals, and the use of social media for targeted negative messages. ECN officials have promised to issue clarifying circulars and to respond swiftly to documented complaints.
Voter education and media cooperation
The commission has also requested parties and media houses to support voter education campaigns, especially regarding ballot design, polling procedures, and the difference between first-past-the-post and proportional representation votes. Broadcasters and online outlets are being reminded of obligations to provide balanced coverage and to respect silence periods before polling.