KATHMANDU: Nepal Communist Party (NCP) leader Barsaman Pun has raised objections to Prime Minister Sushila Karki’s remarks urging support for the younger generation (Gen-Z) in the upcoming elections.

Speaking at a discussion on the Election Code of Conduct organized by the Election Commission on Friday, Pun said it was inappropriate for the Prime Minister and other ministers to make such statements in public speeches.

He also urged the Commission to ensure that state power and resources are not misused during the elections.

Highlighting the need for robust monitoring, Pun said, “The Election Commission must pay strict attention to prevent misuse of state power, resources, and facilities. We have heard speeches urging support for certain candidates and to defeat others. How will this be addressed? Currently, we have a non-partisan government and multiple levels of government—provincial and local. The code of conduct is well-defined, but its enforcement requires a reliable mechanism by the Election Commission. Attention must also be given to monitoring the use of information technology.”

Pun emphasized that the Election Commission should also take special measures to prevent the misuse of IT during the electoral process to ensure free and fair elections.