EC bans posters, allows billboards in local elections

The EC has come up with the Local Government Election Code of Conduct, 2026 that brings about a significant change in terms of the rules for campaign ahead of local government elections of the five tiers in the country.

The posters have become banned under the new set of guidelines and only black and white banners, festoons, leaflets, handbills, and billboards are allowed. The maximum size of a billboard would be 16 feet by 9 feet depending on the type of local government elections.

The use of polythene and PVC materials in campaigning is not allowed. In addition, the use of live animals during campaigns has been made prohibited.

Campaigning with microphones would start at noon and should not continue after sunset. It is to be noted that loudspeakers have become prohibited in district parishad elections.

Use of digital and social media would also be allowed but there would be no use of AI for campaigns. The online campaigning cost would also be included in the election expenditure of candidates.

The collection of voters' NID numbers or account information of mobile financial services in an attempt to persuade them is illegal. Additionally, Mayors, chairmen, administrators, and other relevant officials are not allowed to campaign.