EU to observe polls in Nepal

Kathmandu, Jan 17: Local European Union (EU) Heads of Mission have welcomed the announcement of elections to the Constituent Assembly on April 10.

The EU stands ready to support the elections and to send an election observation mission, a statement by the French Embassy said. Credible, free and fair elections, where people can participate without intimidation and parties can campaign freely, will be vital to long term peace in Nepal. Creating an environment for credible elections will involve improving public security and continuing dialogue with marginalised groups in which all are assured that their interests will be fully taken into consideration in the Constituent Assembly, a press statement of the French Embassy heading the local EU presidency in Nepal said.

''The EU Heads of Mission believe that establishing public security requires the full commitment by all the political parties to the rule of law. We call on all the parties to abide by the election code of conduct and urge the Government to give the necessary political support to the police forces in Nepal to allow them to uphold the rule of law,'' the statement said.

The Heads of Mission also welcomed the renewed commitment shown by the Government and the political parties to work together and implement without delay, the agreements and commitments already made, subject to full and appropriate consultation where necessary.

UNI