The Office of the Chief Election Officer in Dhankuta has issued a warning to CPN-UML candidate Rajendra Kumar Rai for violating the election code of conduct.
A complaint was filed against Rai, a former minister, accusing him of distributing money in violation of the code of conduct. According to the complaint, Rai visited Safaitar in Ward No. 1 of Sahidbhumi Rural Municipality last Friday and presented cash along with a public honor to 45-year-old Tirthakumari Rai in a manner alleged to have influenced voters.
On the same occasion, UML leader and Sahidbhumi Rural Municipality Chairperson Manoj Rai also provided Tirthakumari with NPR 5,000 in cash as encouragement. Former minister Rai stated that the cash honor was given in appreciation of Tirthakumari’s flute-playing skills and to promote hidden talent within the village.
Rai was accompanied by UML leader and former Koshi Province State Minister and Provincial Assembly member Niran Rai, as well as Sahidbhumi Rural Municipality Vice-Chairperson Ratnashwori Rai.
As Rajendra Kumar Rai is also a UML candidate for the House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21, the act was deemed an attempt to lure voters, prompting the complaint. Chief Election Officer Harishchandra Ingnam concluded that Rai had violated the election code of conduct and issued a one-time warning, according to Information Officer Indra Kumar Yonghang.
Yonghang stated that distributing money constitutes a clear violation of the election code of conduct and that Rai has been cautioned not to repeat such actions. The Election Code of Conduct 2082 issued by the Election Commission states under Clause 48(1) that violations may result in penalties of up to NPR 100,000 or even cancellation of candidacy.
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