Outrage Over Nepal Poll Body Curbs On Negative Campaign

A statement issued by Nepal’s election commission asking the public to refrain from making “negative” comments on prominent leaders or risk legal action has created a flutter. The statement came following posts on social media, with the primary theme “No, Not Again”, calling on voters to reject certain politicians, particularly those who have been prime minister at least once. Nepal votes on November 20 to elect a new parliament. The election body has said those found making negative remarks on social media face a fine of Rs100,000 or five years’ imprisonment or both as per relevant laws. Those opposing the move see it as an infringement on the constitutional rights to freedom and communication. The campaign has amassed more than 29,000 likes and 34,000 followers on Facebook. The group justifies its move, saying despite the repeated election of the same candidates, the country has shown no signs of improvement, reports The Kathmandu Post.