UML slams curfews, says govt creating fear before elections

KATHMANDU: The CPN-UML has accused the government of deliberately creating fear among voters by imposing curfews and prohibitory orders in various parts of the country just nine days ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled for March 5.

Addressing a press conference, UML Publicity Department Chief Min Bahadur Shahi said that the restrictions, enforced in the name of maintaining law and order, reflect the government’s failure in security management.

He warned that such measures are intimidating voters and undermining their constitutional right to cast ballots freely.

Shahi expressed serious concern over curfews imposed in several districts of the Madhesh–Terai region, stating that they have created obstacles for ordinary citizens to reach polling stations.

According to the UML, the government’s approach not only curtails citizens’ freedom of expression but also raises serious questions about the country’s democratic values.

The party also drew attention to what it described as misleading rumors circulating in society about postponing the elections under various pretexts. UML reiterated its firm stance that the polls must be held on the announced date without any delay.

Reaffirming its political agenda, UML claimed it has already established itself as a credible foundation for stability, prosperity, and good governance. Shahi said the party has adopted the slogan “Vote for the Nation” instead of “Vote for Change,” emphasizing a call for national interest over short-term political shifts.

On constitutional matters, UML maintained that the dissolution of the House of Representatives must be validated through constitutional review and expressed dissatisfaction with what it termed unnecessary delays by the Supreme Court of Nepal in delivering a verdict.

Meanwhile, the party criticized the decision of the Office of the Attorney General of Nepal to grant general amnesty to individuals directly involved in violent unrest, warning that such moves encourage a culture of impunity.

UML further objected to the publication of one-sided opinion polls by certain media outlets at this sensitive stage of the election, alleging attempts to manipulate public opinion. Shahi said that such sponsored statistics violate the election code of conduct and undermine the credibility of journalism.

The party also raised alarms over the spread of misinformation and AI-generated content through social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, claiming these are being used to polarize voters. UML urged all stakeholders to act responsibly to protect the integrity of the electoral process.