Nepal enters election season as code of conduct comes into effect

Nepal's parliamentary election code of conduct took effect ahead of the March 5 House of Representatives polls, involving 19 million voters and 114 parties. The code applies to government officials, political parties, candidates, media, NGOs, voters, and others involved in the election process. A split in the Nepali Congress party and recognition of a rebel faction by the Election Commission has added drama to the election cycle.