Orientation Program on Election Code of Conduct and Election Observation Concluded
Kathmandu, 28 February 2026 (15 Falgun 2082 B.S.)
The Public Administration Association of Nepal (PAAN) successfully conducted an orientation and interaction program for election observers deployed by the Association, with the objective of strengthening the integrity, impartiality, and credibility of the electoral process.
The program provided comprehensive briefings on the Election Code of Conduct issued by the Election Commission of Nepal, the Election Observation Directive, 2078 (2021), and relevant prevailing legal frameworks governing election observation.
The session was addressed by Mr. Madhurman Acharya, President of PAAN; Mr. Krishna Hari Baskota, Immediate Past President; Dr. Dilip Raj Paudel, General Secretary; and Ms. Jamuna Dangal, Chief Executive Officer (Head of Secretariat). The speakers highlighted key aspects including:
• The legal and ethical foundations of the Election Code of Conduct
• The roles and responsibilities of election observers
• Permissible and impermissible conduct for observers
• Key considerations in evidence-based reporting
• Timely submission of observation reports
• Professional integrity, neutrality, and impartiality
• Personal safety and security during field deployment
Speakers emphasized that strict adherence to the Code of Conduct is fundamental to ensuring transparent, credible, and trustworthy elections. Participants were also informed that violations of the Code may result in legal consequences, including fines and revocation of accreditation.
The orientation reinforced the importance of fact-based observation, respect for voter confidentiality, responsible use of technology, and professional standards in election monitoring.
The program is expected to further strengthen the capacity of PAAN-deployed observers to carry out their responsibilities in a responsible, neutral, and professional manner.
Ensuring free, fair, and credible elections remains a shared responsibility of all stakeholders.