Post-conflict elections are always challenging

Leaders will only follow the election code of conduct when they are compelled to do so by legislation.

As Nepal hurtles toward March 5, the political landscape is being defined by an extraordinary election in an abnormal situation. At a glance, the snap polls seem unprecedented in Nepali political history. A deeper look, however, suggests the first constituent assembly elections, in 2008, were held in even more dire circumstances. The Nepal Police is in disarray now; in 2008, it was defeated. Public frustration over the inadequacies of the political system is brimming now; in 2008, it had overflowed for a decade of insurgency. And a significant alternative force is on the rise now; in 2008, the alternative was surfacing out of jungles.