KATHMANDU: Formal campaigning for the election of members of the March 5 House of Representatives (HoR) begins today.
As per election regulations, candidates and political parties are permitted to conduct campaign activities only within 15 days prior to the voting date. During this period, they may organize processions, public gatherings, corner meetings, and publish or broadcast election-related materials through various media outlets.
Accordingly, political parties and candidates can campaign from today until 12:00 midnight on March 2. Candidates are now formally allowed to seek votes from the public. The Election Commission has urged all stakeholders to prioritize the integrity of the electoral process and strictly adhere to the election code of conduct while carrying out campaign activities.
The Commission has mobilized multiple mechanisms to monitor and enforce compliance with the code of conduct. It has emphasized that there should be no circumstances requiring parties or candidates to provide explanations for violations or face legal action.
The Commission also reminded stakeholders that the code of conduct was formulated after extensive consultations with political parties and other concerned groups, all of whom have pledged full compliance.
Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari stated that the Commission has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward violations of the code. Under existing legal provisions, the Commission may seek clarification from violators and, based on the severity and evidence of the offense, issue warnings, impose fines, or even cancel candidacies.
Political parties and candidates are allowed to advertise in newspapers and online media in accordance with specified guidelines. Candidates must submit detailed expense reports for campaign-related activities, including public meetings and corner gatherings, either personally or through authorized representatives to the election office.
The Commission has also expressed concern over the spread of false information, misinformation, and malicious content through social media and online platforms. It warned against organized attempts to disseminate misleading content aimed at influencing voters or undermining the electoral process for political gain.
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