The United States (US) has said it is alarmed by recent attacks on political candidates and condemned any attempt to impede the electoral process through the use of violence.

In a statement issued in Kathmandu on Monday, the US embassy has called on all sides to maintain and uphold a peaceful and democratic election process for both rounds of upcoming parliamentary and provincial elections.

“A key principle of democratic electoral systems is protecting the rights of citizens to participate in the electoral process without fear of violence or harm,” read the statement.

Urging everyone to respect the freedoms of peaceful expression and assembly, and individual voters’ rights as laid out in Nepal’s laws and constitution, the US has noted that elections are a time for political debate, but in a democracy, the mechanism for expressing disagreements is through the ballot box.

The US has also urged the security forces to exercise restraint and comply with national and international standards when carrying out their duties.

The US has reiterated its commitment to working with all stakeholders for a peaceful, inclusive, and credible election process.