The Election Commission (EC) has instructed every candidate participating in the 13th National Parliamentary Election to submit a comprehensive statement of their electoral expenditures to the designated returning officer. This directive aims to strengthen electoral transparency, ensure accountability, and uphold public confidence in the democratic process.
The instruction was issued through a formal letter signed by A S M Iqbal Hasan, Senior Assistant Secretary of the EC Secretariat, addressed to all returning officers. The letter cites Section 44(g) of the Representation of the People Order, 1972, stating that within 30 days of the gazette notification of elected candidates’ names, all rival candidates must submit a detailed return of their election spending. These returns must include expenses incurred for campaigns, advertisements, public meetings, rallies, and promotional materials.
The gazette containing the names, addresses, and relevant information of candidates elected in the 13th National Parliamentary Election was published on 13 February 2026. This publication is a key element of ensuring transparency in the electoral process and holding candidates accountable. Under EC Circular-18, returning officers have been directed to receive these expenditure returns from all contesting candidates in a timely manner and ensure proper verification.
All submitted expenditure returns must be forwarded to the EC by 25 March 2026. The commission will review the information to monitor compliance with spending limits and other legal obligations. Candidates who fail to submit accurate or timely returns may face legal action as per the provisions of the election law.
To summarise the key details for easy reference:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Election | 13th National Parliamentary Election 2026 |
| Gazette Publication Date | 13 February 2026 |
| Legal Provision | Representation of the People Order, 1972, Section 44(g) |
| Return Submission Deadline | Within 30 days of gazette publication of elected candidates |
| Final Forwarding Date to EC | 25 March 2026 |
| Required Content | Campaign expenses, rallies, advertisements, promotional materials |
| Procedural Reference | Circular-18 of the 13th Parliamentary Election |
| Responsible Officers | All returning officers |
The EC emphasises that this measure will foster a culture of financial transparency and integrity among candidates. It also reassures voters that the election process has not been compromised by unethical or coercive practices. Timely submission of complete and accurate information is critical, as it may influence the electoral outcomes and subsequent administrative procedures.
Such initiatives are essential for safeguarding the transparency of national elections and upholding the core democratic values of accountability and fairness.