The recent decision of the government to dissolve the District Election Offices and subsume it under the District Administration Office has raised concerns regarding the credibility of the Election Commission (EC) and its ability to conduct free, fair, and credible elections. As a newspaper, we believe that keeping District Election Offices under the shadow of the government is detrimental to the democratic process, as it compromises the independence and impartiality of the EC. The Constitution of Nepal establishes the Election Commission as an independent body responsible for overseeing the electoral process. By dissolving the District Election Office in the name of adopting austerity measures without holding consultation or consent from the EC, the government has undermined the constitutional provision that mandates the EC's authority and autonomy. This action challenges the integrity of the constitutional arrangement and creates a potential rift between the commission and the government.
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The credibility of any election lies in its ability to be conducted impartially, free from external influences or control. When District Election Offices are placed under the direct purview of the government, it raises questions about their ability to function independently and without bias. Administrative leadership, often influenced by political agendas, may not be able to guarantee fair and reliable elections. On the other hand, elections conducted under the leadership of district judges, as envisioned by the constitutional arrangement, are more likely to uphold the principles of neutrality and fairness. A healthy democracy relies on the separation of powers and a system of checks and balances. The EC acts as a crucial check on the executive branch, ensuring that elections are conducted transparently and without interference. Placing District Election Offices under the government's shadow undermines this critical check and disrupts the delicate balance of power. The government should recognize that decisions impacting the electoral process must be made in consultation with the EC to maintain the integrity of the democratic system. Dissolving the District Election Office disrupts the continuity and stability of the electoral process.
The EC is designed to function continually, ensuring that all necessary preparations for elections are in place. By transferring the responsibilities of the District Election Office to the District Administration Office, the government risks creating a constitutional gap and impeding the EC's ability to fulfill its mandate effectively. This hasty decision without proper consultation may lead to confusion, delays, and even legal challenges, ultimately affecting the electoral process and eroding public trust. One of the fundamental pillars of a democratic society is the public's trust in the electoral process. Citizens must have confidence that their votes will be counted accurately and that elections are conducted fairly. Placing District Election Offices under the shadow of the government not only raises doubts about the independence of the EC but also undermines the trust of the electorate. The government must recognize the importance of maintaining public trust and work collaboratively with the EC to address any concerns or issues related to the electoral process. The decision to dissolve the District Election Office and subordinate it to the District Administration Office risks undermining the credibility, impartiality, and independence of the Election Commission. By keeping District Election Offices under the shadow of the government, Nepal's democratic system faces challenges in conducting free, fair, and credible elections. It is essential for the government to respect the constitutional provisions, consult with the EC, and uphold the integrity of the electoral process to safeguard democracy and maintain public trust.
