KATHMANDU, April 29: The Election Commission (EC) has drawn the attention of all not to force anyone to withdraw their nominations for the upcoming local level elections.
Stating that it has information about the use of such tactics as use of force, threats, holding captive, intimidation and persuasion in a bid to compel candidates to take back the nominations, it has urged one and all not to indulge in such practices.
Presidential Election: Candidates can withdraw their candidacy...
Issuing a press statement today, the EC said, “Such activities will curtail the inalienable and legal rights of Nepali citizens to participate in politics, file a candidacy, to get elected in the election and to engage in the governance system. Hence, the EC urges all bodies concerned not to carry out and cause to carry out any activities capable of impacting the election procedures.”
As the EC said, those filing their nominations on April 24 and 25 for the May 13 elections could withdraw their candidacy from the respective Office of the Election Officer by 5:00 PM Friday.
But a notification in writing is required to take back the candidacy after the publishing of the names of candidates.
The EC has urged all political parties, and their candidates to contribute to and fully abide by the Constitution and laws and independent candidates to decide whether to quit the race. It has also reminded all the stakeholders concerned not to repeat such moves.
