Clarification sought from five journalist bodies

Election Commission has sought clarification from five journalist bodies for allegedly violating election code of conduct.

The journalists representing five media organizations, who earlier issued a joint statement asking people to vote for the ruling five party alliance, have been asked to submit clarifications within 24 hours.

The EC has asked clarification from Chairman of Nepal Press Union Badri Sigdel, Chairman of Press Center Nepal Bishnu Sapkota, Chairman of Socialist Press Organization Shambhu Shrestha, Chairman of Press Forum Nepal Keshav Aryal and Secretary of Progressive Journalists’ Association Shyamlal Pokharel.

In its statement the EC stated that an appeal to the voters made by the five journalist bodies calling to vote for the candidates of the ruling five-party alliance goes against the Election Code of Conduct, 2078 BS. Clause 22 of the Election Code of Conduct states that the journalists and employees working in the media houses should not publish and broadcast news for and against any candidate.