Violence has no place in freedom of expression, assembly: UN in Nepal

KATHMANDU: The United Nations in Nepal said on Tuesday that it is seriously concerned by the escalation of tensions in the lead-up to the local elections announced for May.

“We are saddened by the loss of life and injuries which resulted from the recent violent clash in Saptari district between political party cadres and state security forces,” the United Nations Office of the Resident Coordinator in Nepal said in a statement.

Pointing out that violence has no place in the freedom of expression and assembly, the statement called on security forces to comply with existing national and international standards on the use of force.

“At the same time, we urge the political parties to peacefully express their views in actions and statements,” it said.

The UN office further said it encouraged inclusive and meaningful dialogue to create and strengthen conducive environment for conducting historical local elections in Nepal.

Three persons were killed and several others injured in police firing in Saptari when protesters tried to disrupt CPN-UML's function in Saptari yesterday. In response, the alliance of Madhesi parties has imposed a two-day general strike in Tarai districts.

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