KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 24 With nine days remaining for the House of Representatives (HoR) elections scheduled for March 5, the Election Commission has reiterated strict compliance with the Election Code of Conduct, urging teachers, professors, government officials and other stakeholders to refrain from participating in political campaigns. In a series of statements issued on Monday and Tuesday, the Commission said it had received complaints about the involvement of professors, teachers and public officials in election publicity campaigns. It directed them to maintain neutrality and decorum in line with the Election Code of Conduct, 2082 BS, which aims to ensure free, fair and transparent polls. Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai said the Commission is closely monitoring adherence to the code by political parties, candidates and concerned stakeholders. Clause 16 of the Education Act, 2028 BS, and provisions of the Election Code of Conduct explicitly bar teachers, professors and officials from engaging in partisan campaign activities. The Commission also reminded that the code binds the Government of Nepal, federal and provincial ministers, local governments and their executives, civil servants at all levels, semi-state institutions, public enterprises, media houses, schools, universities, banks and financial institutions, cooperatives, NGOs, security agencies, constitutional bodies, election observers and political parties, including their sister organisations and representatives. Separately, the EC has advised political parties and candidates not to involve children in election-related activities. Citing complaints, it said children must not be used in rallies, cultural programmes, processions or for carrying party flags and election symbols, nor should campaign events be organised near schools during school hours. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Population has urged the Commission not to deploy health workers in election duties, citing the need for them to remain on 24-hour standby to respond to possible accidents and emergencies during the polls. Ministry spokesperson Dr Prakash Budhathoki said health personnel have been instructed to remain prepared throughout the election period. The Commission has warned that violations of the code will invite action in accordance with prevailing laws.