KATHMANDU: The Election Commission has urged all candidates for the House of Representatives to immediately open a bank account dedicated to election purposes.

At a regular press briefing on Friday, the Commission emphasized that all campaign expenditures must be conducted through this account.

Candidates who have yet to open one were advised not to delay.

According to Assistant Spokesperson Sita Pun, the campaign period begins on Feb 16, and accounts should be operational by then. “We are focusing closely on both the manifesto and election bank accounts. Directive orders have also been issued to parties for effective implementation,” she said.

Candidates must obtain the necessary recommendations from their political party and the District or Provincial Election Office to open the account. The Commission said this procedure ensures easier record management.

Acknowledging potential delays due to public holidays, the Commission has consulted with bank CEOs to facilitate account opening.

Candidates are encouraged to open accounts by Feb 15 and conduct all campaign spending through them. “We expect most candidates to have their accounts operational within a day or two,” Punsris added.

Under the election code of conduct, all candidates are required to open a bank account to ensure transparency in campaign expenditures.