Kathmandu, 16 Feb: Formal election campaigning for the election of members of the House of Representatives has officially begun from today (Monday). According to the election regulations, rallies, mass meetings, corner meetings, and the publication or broadcast of election-related materials in the media are permitted only from 15 days prior to the polling day.
In line with this provision, political parties and candidates will be allowed to conduct election campaigning from today until midnight of Falgun 18(2 March 2026). It has been stated that all political parties, candidates, and other concerned stakeholders must strictly adhere to the election code of conduct while carrying out campaign activities, giving the highest priority to electoral integrity. Within this framework, candidates of political parties will be able to formally seek votes from voters.
The Commission has been mobilizing various mechanisms for the implementation and monitoring of the code of conduct. It has clarified that it does not wish to reach a situation where it has to issue clarification letters regarding violations of the code of conduct or proceed with legal action against political parties or candidates.
The Commission has recalled that the code of conduct was formulated through extensive consultations with political parties and other stakeholders. All political parties have expressed their commitment to fully comply with the code of conduct.
Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari stated that the Commission has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward violations of the code of conduct. He explained that violators may be asked for clarification, and depending on the evidence and circumstances, legal provisions allow for warnings, fines, and even cancellation of candidacy.
Similarly, political parties and candidates will be allowed to conduct campaign advertising in newspapers as well as online media, based on the prescribed standards. For campaign activities such as mass meetings and corner meetings, candidates themselves or their representatives must submit details of expenses incurred for stage preparation to the respective election office.
The Commission has also stated that during the election period, it is prohibited to spread misinformation, disinformation, or hateful expressions through social media and online platforms, or in an organized manner for vested political interests, with the intent of harming any political party or candidate or adversely affecting the election process.
