KATHMANDU: Chief Election Commissioner Ayodhee Prasad Yadav has said the public enthusiasm seen during the filing of nominations for the second phase of local elections was highly commendable.

While inaugurating an orientation training for micro observers to be deputed in the second phase of polls in the Capital on Wednesday, the CEC said, "The filing of nominations was held quite peacefully and in an enthusiastic atmosphere."

Around 63 thousands candidates have filed their nominations for the second phase of local level elections taking place at 334 levels of 35 districts of three provinces- 1, 5 and 7 on  June 28.

On the occasion, the CEC directed micro observers to keep a close tab on election affairs bearing in mind the possibility of violation of election code of conduct and money politics during the publicity campaign and report to the EC if such unethical practices were seen.

He also instructed them to maintain a distance with political parties and work as an inseparable part of the EC so that none could find any complaint regarding their performance. "The role and responsibility of micro observers is pivotal to make the elections successful."

The EC has announced the award for election employees from districts witnessing the maximum turnout in the elections.

EC Secretary Gopinath Mainali instructed micro observers, who according to him are given special duties and responsibilities, to prepare a daily work plan before going to the assigned polling stations.

A total of 15,038 local people's representatives will be elected from the second phase  of elections.

The EC is sending 75 government employees- under secretaries and section officers- as micro observers to the local bodies considered  sensitive in view of the elections.

Micro observers who  work in cooperation with the EC officials, Chief District Officers, District Chief Election Officers and election officers are not allowed to introduce themselves to poll candidates, political parties and the media.