The Election Commission has reminded officials, civil servants, and institutions across the country to strictly adhere to the election code of conduct after receiving multiple complaints of violations ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Commission said instances of non-compliance had surfaced in the run-up to the March 5 elections to the House of Representatives, prompting the constitutional body to issue a renewed call for neutrality and discipline among stakeholders.
According to the EC, the election code of conduct is fully binding on the Government of Nepal, including federal ministers, provincial governments and their ministers, as well as all government bodies and office-bearers at the federal, provincial and local levels. The rules also apply to employees working across these tiers and to personnel of semi-government institutions and public enterprises.
The Commission clarified that the code extends beyond government structures to cover media houses and journalists, educational institutions such as schools and universities, and their teachers, professors, and administrative officials. It stressed that these sectors must maintain institutional neutrality during the election period.
Likewise, political parties, their sister organizations, candidates, election representatives, and polling agents are required to fully comply with the code. Banks and financial institutions, cooperatives, business and commercial sectors, as well as non-governmental organizations and their employees, have also been listed among those obligated to observe the regulations.
The EC further stated that constitutional bodies, their officials, security agencies and personnel, public office holders, election observers, and members of monitoring committees must strictly follow the code to ensure free and fair elections.
The Commission expressed particular concern over complaints alleging the involvement of some professors, teachers, and officials in publicity campaigns supporting specific political parties and candidates. It warned that such activities are explicitly prohibited and undermine the principle of impartiality required during elections.
The EC has directed educators and public officials to refrain from participating in any form of political campaigning, including advocacy, public endorsements, or organizational support for candidates.
Reiterating the importance of maintaining a level playing field, the Commission has urged all stakeholders to uphold neutrality, avoid misuse of institutional platforms, and ensure that their actions do not influence voters unfairly.
The EC emphasized that strict observance of the code of conduct is essential to safeguarding electoral integrity, maintaining public trust, and ensuring that the upcoming parliamentary elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
The Commission also warned that monitoring mechanisms have been strengthened and that any further violations may invite legal action in accordance with prevailing electoral laws.
