Election campaigning for members of the House of Representatives will be formally permitted from February 16, 2026. It is provided that only from 15 days before the polling date may the election campaigning activities, such as rallies, mass meetings, corner assemblies, and the publication or broadcast of election-related materials in the media, be carried out. In accordance with this provision, political parties and candidates may campaign from today until 12:00 midnight on March 3.
It has been stated that, giving high priority to the integrity of the election, all political parties, candidates, and other stakeholders must fully comply with the election code of conduct while carrying out campaign activities. Within this framework, candidates of political parties will be formally allowed to seek votes from the electorate.
The Commission has informed that various mechanisms are being mobilized for the implementation and monitoring of the code of conduct. It has made clear that letters seeking clarification will be issued to political parties and candidates regarding violations of the code of conduct, with the aim of avoiding the need to proceed toward legal action. The Commission has reminded that the code of conduct was formulated through extensive consultation with political parties and concerned 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. The Commission may seek clarification from violators, and depending on the evidence and circumstances of the violation, there are legal provisions for warnings, fines, or even cancellation of candidacy.
Similarly, political parties and candidates may promote their campaigns through advertisements in newspapers as well as online media, based on prescribed standards. When organizing mass meetings or corner assemblies for election campaigning, candidates must submit details of the expenses incurred for stage preparation to the election office, either personally or through a representative.
The Commission has also stated that no one may disseminate false information, disinformation, or hateful expressions through social media or online platforms against any party or candidate, or in a manner intended to adversely affect the election, particularly when spread in an organized way to serve vested political interests.