KATHMANDU, June 16: The government has rolled out a new code of conduct aimed at enforcing discipline and ethical behaviour among chief administrative officers and officials performing similar roles in local governments.
The code, which has already been uploaded to the website of the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, Federal Affairs and General Administration, explicitly bars employees from using social media for personal purposes during office hours on mobile phones or computers, marking a stricter stance on administrative conduct.
The framework outlines eight key provisions in detail, tightening rules across professional, social and personal conduct of civil servants.
It also prohibits the posting or sharing of audio-visual content that could be deemed inappropriate or offensive to professional dignity, even outside office hours.
Officials have also been restricted from dining with service recipients. The code states: “During any field visit, one must not accept accommodation, food, transport, or any other facilities offered by service recipients, contractors, or local service providers.”
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Even social media use outside office hours has been placed under strict scrutiny. Officials using platforms such as Facebook, Twitter (X), WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and TikTok are required to exercise maximum caution under professional ethics, ensuring that institutional trust and service dignity are not compromised.
The code states: “While using social media, content that could harm the dignity of public service, damage an employee’s reputation, or create confusion and distrust among the public must not be posted or shared.”
Officials have also been advised against making comments on news or online content in a manner that includes personal satire or criticism that could harm the dignity, respect, or reputation of any officeholder or institution.
It further states: “While using social media in an official capacity on behalf of rural municipalities or municipalities, personal identity must not be disclosed.”
The new rules strictly prohibit accepting gifts, hospitality, or any form of benefit from individuals or institutions linked to the work of rural municipalities or municipalities without approval from the executive or ministry. Employees are also barred from engaging in any unlawful activity for personal gain.
It further states: “Consumption of alcohol within office premises or public places, playing cards or gambling, or engaging in any act that may damage the dignity of the local government or civil service must not be done.”
Officials are also prohibited from participating in foreign visits, training programmes, or workshops, as well as from initiating correspondence seeking assistance from donor agencies or other institutions without prior approval from the competent authority.
Use of government resources has also been tightened. The code states: “Government vehicles must not be used for personal purposes other than official work. On public holidays, government vehicles may only be used with a vehicle pass for official purposes.”
It further reiterates that without approval from the competent authority or authorised official as per prevailing laws, officials must not participate in foreign visits, training, or workshops, nor seek assistance from donor agencies or other organisations through correspondence.
Employees have also been instructed not to air grievances publicly on social media. The code states: “Any personal grievances or complaints must not be posted on mass media or social media, and should instead be submitted to the chairperson or head of the rural municipality or municipality, and to the supervising ministry secretary.”
It further adds that employees must obtain leave approval and inform the chairperson or chief before leaving the office.
