Kathmandu: The Election Commission has made public a draft of the ‘Election Code of Conduct–2082’ for feedback and suggestions, ahead of the House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21.

The draft has been issued with the objective of ensuring a free, fair, impartial, transparent and cost-effective election, while creating a fear-free environment. Prepared under the authority provided by Section 22 of the Election Commission Act, 2073, the draft code consists of 10 chapters and five schedules.

According to the Commission, once the new code of conduct comes into force, the Election Code of Conduct–2079 will be repealed. The draft introduces several new and comparatively stricter provisions. Among them, the Commission has proposed making public the names of individuals or institutions found violating the code of conduct.

The draft also emphasizes increased use of electronic media and information technology for monitoring and enforcing compliance with the code. In addition, political parties will be required to make their election manifestos public as part of the new provisions.

The Commission has invited concerned stakeholders to provide suggestions on the draft before finalizing and implementing the code of conduct for the upcoming election.