The abstention of 13 representatives, including independent mayors, from the National Assembly election has drawn mixed reactions. Chief Election Commissioner Dinesh Kumar Thapaliya expressed dissatisfaction with their decision, highlighting the contradiction between expecting votes from citizens while not participating themselves. Thapaliya emphasized the moral obligation of leaders to respect the electoral process conducted by the Election Commission (EC) and criticized the boycott as morally wrong.
However, Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City Mayor Gopal Hamal defended the abstention, citing the constitutional right not to vote. He argued that they acted within their rights and emphasized the need to respect popular opinion. Hamal criticized political parties for manipulating think tank positions and turning the National Assembly into a “losers club,” prompting his decision to abstain.
Support for the independent mayors’ abstention was evident on social media, with some labeling the National Assembly as a “losers club” due to the presence of defeated and undeserving leaders. The EC proposed a bill to prevent defeated leaders from running for the National Assembly for at least one term, aiming to ensure qualified candidates.
Thapaliya also condemned unethical behavior by political parties during the silent period, citing instances of parties violating the election code of conduct by organizing events. He stressed the importance of every voter’s right to vote, regardless of their party affiliation.
The National Assembly election involved votes from members of the Provincial Assembly, mayors, deputy mayors, and chairs and vice-chairs of local units across the seven provinces. The abstention underscores ongoing debates surrounding electoral integrity and the role of representatives in upholding democratic principles.
