KATHMANDU, JANUARY 3
The Election Commission (EC) has fixed constituency-wise expenditure ceilings for candidates contesting the March 5 House of Representatives elections, ranging from Rs 2.7 million to Rs 3.3 million.
Candidates contesting from remote and geographically challenging districts-including Taplejung, Panchthar, Sankhuwasabha, Solukhumbu, Khotang, Dolakha and Ramechhap-are permitted to spend up to the maximum limit of Rs 3.3 million.
Similarly, candidates from selected constituencies in Kavrepalanchowk, Makawanpur, Gorkha, Lamjung, Arghakhanchi, Rolpa, Pyuthan, Dang, Bardiya, Salyan, Dolpa, Humla, Jajarkot, Bajhang, Doti and Baitadi may also spend up to the same ceiling.
The EC said higher limits were set for remote districts due to logistical and geographical constraints. In more accessible areas, candidates will be allowed to spend a minimum of Rs 2.7 million.
The lowest spending cap applies to five constituencies in Kathmandu-1, 3, 6, 7 and 8-as well as constituencies in Terhathum, Rasuwa, Manang, Lalitpur, parts of Kathmandu, Parsa, Kaski and Rukum West.
According to the EC, candidates in 65 constituencies may spend up to Rs 2.9 million, while 52 constituencies have a cap of Rs 3.1 million. The Commission has also made it mandatory for all election-related expenses to be conducted through bank and financial institution accounts.
