Proposed Chief Election Commissioner Commits to ‘No Vote’ and Overseas Voting

A long-standing debate in Nepal over the implementation of ‘no vote’ and voting rights for Nepalis living abroad has yet to result in concrete legislation. However, proposed Chief Election Commissioner Man Bahadur Karki has expressed his commitment to introducing these measures.

Karki presented his five-point plan to the Parliamentary Hearing Committee, which includes the implementation of ‘no vote’ and voting rights for Nepalis living abroad. His plan also aims to make the electoral process more cost-effective and transparent, increase public trust in the electoral process, and ensure the effective implementation of the electoral code of conduct.

Karki’s plan also includes the creation of a unified electoral law, the promotion of information technology in electoral management, and the protection of the voting rights of Nepalis living abroad. He has also committed to revising the existing electoral policy and laws, and creating a national policy on elections.

The proposed Chief Election Commissioner has also emphasized the importance of ensuring the voting rights of Nepalis living abroad and those living outside their home districts. He has committed to making the necessary legal, technical, and diplomatic arrangements to ensure the voting rights of Nepalis living abroad.

The Parliamentary Hearing Committee has scheduled a presentation by Karki for Ashar 13, while the other two proposed commissioners, Dr. Rajiv Subba and Guru Wagley, are set to present on the previous day. Both meetings are scheduled for 11:15 am.

Karki, a former registrar at the Supreme Court, has been recommended for the position of Chief Election Commissioner by the Constitutional Council. Dr. Subba, a former DIG and IT specialist, and Guru Wagley, a retired government attorney, have also been recommended as election commissioners.

According to the constitutional provision, the proposed commissioners will be appointed by the President after their names are approved by the Parliamentary Committee.