Nomination filing begins nationwide for FPTP races, EC warns against showmanship

KATHMANDU: Nominations for the first-past-the-post (FPTP) races in the House of Representatives election are being filed across the country today, as Nepal enters a decisive phase of its national polls scheduled for Falgun 21.

The Election Commission (EC) said all necessary preparations have been completed, with election offices established in all 165 constituencies nationwide to facilitate the registration process.

In a formal appeal, the Commission urged political parties and candidates to avoid showmanship and mass processions while submitting their nominations, calling for a calm, disciplined, and dignified approach to the process.

“The filing of nominations should reflect the democratic maturity of political actors. Candidates are requested to reach election offices peacefully, without rallies or displays of power,” the Commission stated.

Time Slots Set to Manage Crowds

To prevent overcrowding and ensure a smooth process, the EC has allocated specific time slots for major political parties and candidates to file nominations. The measure is intended to minimize congestion at election offices and maintain order throughout the day.

Election officials said staggered timing would also reduce the risk of clashes and logistical disruption, particularly in politically sensitive constituencies.

Proportional List Already Finalized

The Commission has already published the final list of candidates under the proportional representation (PR) system. In the 275-member House of Representatives, 110 lawmakers will be elected through the PR system, while 165 will be chosen through the FPTP system.

Today’s nomination marks the formal launch of direct electoral competition across all constituencies.

Election Logistics and Security in Place

Following the Gen Z-led movement on Bhadra 23 and 24, the interim government formed for election purposes has arranged the necessary logistics and resources for the polls. The process of selecting election security personnel has already begun, according to the Commission.

Election officials said coordination among security agencies has been intensified to ensure peaceful nominations and a credible electoral environment.

Parties Finalizing Candidates

Most major political parties have completed their candidate selection processes. The Nepali Congress said it is still finalizing candidates in a few constituencies but expects to complete the process by this morning.

The CPN-UML stated that it has finalized candidates in all constituencies. UML, the CPN (Maoist Centre), the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and other major parties have already issued official nomination letters to their candidates.

Political observers say today’s nominations will provide a clearer picture of electoral alliances, high-profile contests, and emerging political equations ahead of the polls.

Mandatory Documents for Nomination

According to the EC’s schedule, nominations are being filed nationwide today. Candidates must appear in person at the designated election office with mandatory documents, including a copy of their citizenship certificate or voter ID card.

They must also submit proof that their name is included in the final voter list of a municipality or rural municipality. The Commission has asked candidates to bring additional supporting documents as required by election regulations.

The Election Commission reiterated that strict adherence to electoral law and code of conduct during the nomination process is essential to ensuring a free, fair, and credible election.