Kathmandu, Jan 11: The Election Commission has brought activities on social networking platforms under the purview of the election code of conduct with the objective of ensuring that the March 5 election to the House of Representatives is conducted in a free, fair, and credible manner.
According to the Commission, the code of conduct prohibits the operation of social media accounts or the creation of fake pages with the intent to influence the election or undermine its integrity. It explicitly bans any act of belittling individuals or institutions, spreading misinformation, or disseminating false or misleading content on social media platforms, whether through conventional means or with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The code further prohibits the circulation of misleading information, insults, hate speech, or deceptive commentary intended to manipulate public opinion. Likewise, any information or material published or broadcast for any purpose may not be altered, posted, reposted, commented upon, live-streamed, tagged, or mentioned on social media—whether with or without the use of AI—if done with the intention of influencing the electoral process.
The code of conduct also forbids any activity that may undermine the credibility of the election or damage the reputation of the Election Commission, its commissioners, or its employees. Acts such as character assassination, personal defamation, or the production and dissemination of similar content in any form are strictly prohibited.
In addition, the code bars violations of voter confidentiality and any action that compromises the integrity, neutrality, or impartiality of the electoral process.
The Election Commission has stated that the revised code of conduct will come into force from January 17. #nepal #election
