44 Days to HoR Polls: Citizenship Certificate Mandatory for Candidate Registration

Kathmandu, Jan 20: The Election Commission has reiterated that a citizenship certificate is compulsory for candidates filing nominations for the March 5 House of Representatives elections.

As per the election calendar, nominations are being submitted across the country today. Candidates must provide a copy of their citizenship certificate or voter ID card, along with proof of inclusion in the final voter list of any rural municipality or municipality.

Those holding positions in the Government of Nepal, provincial governments, or local bodies, or receiving salaries from organizations funded by the government, must also submit proof of resignation from such positions.

Nomination papers must be signed by a proposer and a seconder, both registered voters of the same constituency. For party-backed candidates, a formal nomination letter issued by the party’s central executive committee or an authorized body is required. In cases where parties contest jointly using a single election symbol, the nomination must comply with the House of Representatives Election Guidelines, 2082 BS.

Candidates are also required to deposit Rs. 10,000 with the relevant election officer. Women, Dalits, minority communities, and economically disadvantaged candidates are eligible for a 50 percent discount on the deposit.

Additionally, all candidates must submit a sealed statement declaring details of their movable and immovable assets, bank accounts, securities, shares, bonds, and any loans given or received.