With the February 21 House of Representatives election approaching, the CPN-UML has voiced strong concern over what it describes as a deteriorating security climate, while projecting confidence in its electoral strength nationwide.
Speaking publicly, UML publicity department chief Min Bahadur Shahi said the party believes the government has not been able to establish a credible environment of peace and order. He argued that reports of curfews, incidents targeting party leaders, and alleged election code violations have contributed to anxiety among voters.
Referring to the indefinite curfew in Gaur, Rautahat, Shahi said such measures have heightened public fear and called on authorities to guarantee voters’ right to cast ballots without intimidation. He also cited incidents in Bara and Dang involving damage to campaign materials and alleged misconduct targeting UML candidates, demanding immediate action to ensure their safety.
Shahi accused the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) of attempting to disrupt the election process. He alleged that acts such as burning party flags, spreading hostility toward UML leadership, and circulating what he described as “fake surveys” were intended to influence public opinion. He further objected to the reported distribution of T-shirts bearing party leaders’ images during the Holi festival in the Tarai-Madhes region, calling it a misuse of a cultural occasion.
The UML also questioned the Election Commission’s response to what it termed serious violations of the election code of conduct. Shahi urged the Commission to widen monitoring and enforcement measures, particularly regarding incidents targeting the party’s election symbol and leaders.
Despite these concerns, the UML maintained that it is not intimidated. Shahi claimed that between 1.45 and 1.5 million party members and supporters are actively campaigning across the country, from Taplejung to Darchula and Jhapa to Kanchanpur. He expressed confidence that UML would emerge as the largest party and form a majority government after the vote.
The party framed the election as a decisive moment for the country’s direction and reiterated its commitment to press freedom and democratic pluralism, while opposing what it described as misleading propaganda benefiting specific political actors.
Addressing speculation about internal defections, Shahi dismissed reports of leaders leaving the party as “misinformation,” stating that those named were either already under disciplinary action or not part of the party’s formal structure.
As campaigning enters its final phase, the UML says its strategy up to the 17th of Falgun will consolidate its support base, while urging the government to ensure a fair and secure voting process.