Election penalty waiver decision challenged in court

KATHMANDU: A writ petition has been filed challenging the government’s decision to waive penalties for political parties and candidates who failed to disclose their expenses incurred during the local government election within the prescribed timeframe.

The writ petition was filed by Advocate Lokendra Oli, who has named the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, which recommended the decision, and the Office of the President, which made the decision, as defendants in the case.

Last year, in April, the Election Commission imposed penalties on political parties and candidates who failed to disclose their expenses for the local government election held in March.

The cabinet meeting held on January 18 recommended the President for the penalty waiver.