KATHMANDU: The Election Commission Nepal has issued a 64-point directive to political parties and candidates in connection with the upcoming election.
At an interaction program with journalists regarding the House of Representatives election held at the Commission on Sunday, Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari said the directive was issued incorporating provisions of the election code of conduct.
According to the Commission, candidates are allowed to organize rallies, mass meetings, corner assemblies, and door-to-door campaigns only from Falgun 4 to Falgun 18. Campaign activities may be conducted only between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm.
The Commission has also mandated that all election-related expenses must be made through banks or financial institutions. Candidates are required to submit a complete statement of election expenses to the Commission within 35 days of the announcement of the election results. The distribution and use of items bearing election symbols, such as T-shirts, caps, bags, masks, or lockets, have been prohibited.
Acting Chief Election Commissioner Bhandari said the Commission will regularly monitor compliance with the code of conduct. If violations are found, actions ranging from warnings and fines to cancellation of candidacy may be imposed.
He expressed confidence that political parties and candidates would comply with the code, noting that it was formulated after consultations with political stakeholders and the government.
Bhandari further stated that those found violating the code could face disqualification from participating in any political competition for up to six years.
He added that the Commission has already allocated a budget for voter education and is closely monitoring whether the funds are being properly utilized.
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