Pokhara, 16 February | Official campaigning for the upcoming House of Representatives election, scheduled for March 5 (Falgun 21), has formally commenced today, February 16 (Falgun 4). According to the Election Commission’s regulations, political parties and candidates are permitted to organize rallies, mass meetings, and corner meetings only 15 days prior to the polling date. This active campaigning period is set to continue until midnight on March 2 (Falgun 18). The Commission has stated that candidates can now formally reach out to voters and utilize media platforms for election-related advertisements, provided they adhere strictly to the established code of conduct.
The Election Commission has emphasized that candidates must submit details of expenses incurred during the preparation of stages for mass gatherings either personally or through a representative. Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari has reiterated that the Commission is adopting a zero-tolerance policy regarding any breach of the election code of conduct. Legal consequences for violations range from seeking formal clarifications and imposing fines to the potential cancellation of candidacy. Furthermore, the Commission has strictly prohibited the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech on social media platforms to ensure a free and fair electoral environment for all stakeholders involved.
