Silence period begins at midnight; Election campaigning prohibited

Dhangadhi: A silence period will come into effect from midnight tonight for the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for next Thursday. With the implementation of the silence period, campaigning for or against any candidate and soliciting votes will be strictly prohibited.

Throughout the day, political parties and candidates remained engaged in the final round of election meetings and campaign activities. The silence period will begin at 12 midnight and will remain in force until the completion of the voting process.

The silence period has been introduced to prevent disputes, clashes or any untoward incidents among competitors during the voting period. In line with international practice, it aims to ensure that elections are conducted in a peaceful and secure environment. The measure is intended to guarantee fair competition among candidates and to allow voters to cast their ballots free from pressure or influence. Without such a provision, continued campaigning up to the voting period could increase the risk of influencing voters.

According to the election code of conduct, promotional materials of parties or candidates must be removed, and no methods or means of soliciting votes or conducting election campaigns may be used during this period. After the silence period begins, the Office of the Election Officer will direct concerned parties and candidates to remove promotional materials placed within 300 meters of polling stations.

Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari stated that election-related discussions, interactions, meetings, conferences, workshops and seminars of any kind will not be permitted during the silence period. Campaigning for or against any candidate through social media is also prohibited.

During this time, office bearers of political parties, candidates, fraternal organizations and all individuals, institutions or bodies required to adhere to the code of conduct are barred from engaging in any form of campaigning. The Election Commission has clarified that no messages, information or promotional materials supporting or opposing a party or candidate may be posted, shared or published on social media, online platforms, print media or any other medium.