EC’s Directive for Fair and Inclusive Polls

Nepal’s Election Commission has issued a new 20-point directive ahead of the country’s next major elections.

he move is designed to strengthen governance, ensure gender and social inclusion and promote fair political conduct as Nepal prepares for national polls in 2026.

The House of Representatives election is scheduled for 5 March 2026 and the National Assembly vote will take place on 26 December this year.

The guidelines were issued under Nepal’s Political Party Act and apply to all registered political parties. Officials say the goal is to safeguard democratic values and guarantee that Nepal’s diverse population is properly represented.

DIRECTIVES FOR GENDER EQUALITY AND INCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION

Parties must ensure at least one-third women in their candidate lists.

They must maintain gender balance and social diversity even in first-past-the-post races.

The new rules support Nepal’s national target of reaching 40% women in Parliament by 2030, aligned with global Sustainable Development Goals.

Parties are also directed to reflect Nepal’s ethnic, regional and cultural diversity when selecting candidates.

CONDUCT DURING CAMPAIGNS
The Election Commission has introduced strict behavioral standards for the campaign period:

Parties cannot engage in activities that threaten social harmony.

Intimidation, defamation, discrimination or personal attacks, especially against women, children, persons with disabilities and minority communities are prohibited.

False or harmful information, including on social media is banned.

Parties must also ensure child protection, strictly avoiding the use of children in political activities.

ACCESSIBILITY AND VOTER EDUCATION
To create a more inclusive voting experience:

Polling stations should be gender-friendly and accessible to people with disabilities.

Political parties must address social inclusion in their manifestos.

They must also inform voters about the importance of gender equality, inclusivity, and the voting process.

The directive stresses that no party can obstruct or interfere with another party’s campaign activities.

Party members and officials must fully comply with Nepal’s election code of conduct.