Poll code takes effect from Tuesday

The Election Commission on Sunday announced a code of conduct for the election of 19 National Assembly members slated for Jan 25, to be effective from Jan 16 till Jan 26.  

The code bars the use of public resources or assets for or against any party or candidate from Jan 16 to 26; use of government or public institutions or educational institutions for conducting poll-related gatherings or campaigns; production as well as use of materials with symbols of any party or candidate and publication as well as sharing of promotional contents through social media. 

It also prohibits officials of central, provincial and local executive bodies from using government resources and equipment for electioneering. 

In Nepal’s bicameral parliament, NA or the upper house consists of 59 members, of which 56 members are elected through the electoral college while three, including at least one woman, is nominated by the President on the recommendation of the government.

Ideally, NA is distinct from the lower house, which is dominated by politicians. It serves as an eclectic council of experts and scholars that advise the lower house or the House of Representatives during the lawmaking process. It plays a vital role in holding the HoR and the government to account. The upper house is also a permanent body, and the term of its member can last for a maximum of six years. One-third members retire every two years and elections are held accordingly.