Parties Set To Advance Canvassing

With just 21 days left until the elections to the House of Representatives (HoR) and the provincial assemblies, the political parties, their candidates and cadres, supporters, and independent nominees have already begun nationwide canvassing to win over voters. However, the election code of conduct, which was issued a couple of weeks ago by the Election Commission (EC) after holding consultations with the political parties as key stakeholders, allows the parties and contestants to carry out their publicity campaigns in full swing merely 17 days before the polling date. The poll code prevents them from holding marches, mass gatherings and corner meetings prior to November 3 as the elections are scheduled to be held on November 20. Despite such a provision, political parties and contestants were found utilising the festivals of Dashain, Tihar and Chhath for courting their relatives, friends and well-wishers.