Nepal second phase polls facing uncertainty

With Nepal set to hold the first phase of elections early next week, doubts over the commencement of the second phase is dominating discussion in the political and public space.

The opposition is demanding that the second phase of polls be preponed, as the date for announcing the budget is prior to the date of the second phase and might influence voters.

Chief Election Commissioner Dr. Ayodhi Prasad Yadav has, however, rejected any plans for changing the date of the polls.

The main opposition Communist Party of Nepal- Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) party has asked for the second phase poll to be held before the announcement of the budget on May 29. The opposition has claimed that the ruling alliance will highlight features of the budget to attract voters to its cause.

Terming the budget to be constitutional and out of the Election Commission's purview, Chief Election Commissioner Yadav said, "The Election Commission of Nepal has drawn the attention of the Government of Nepal to bring the budget as per the election code of conduct, it should not violate it. Budget is stated in the constitution and this year also it is scheduled to be brought on 29th May which is the constitutional provision and the Election Commission cannot raise question over it and stop it.