EC directs to submit polls expenditure returns

Staff Reporter :

The Election Commission (EC) has directed all candidates who contested the 13th Parliamentary Election to submit their election expenditure statements by 14 March.

In a letter issued on Wednesday and signed by Senior Assistant Secretary ASM Iqbal Hasan, the Commission directed Returning Officers to ensure compliance.

The letter states that, under Article 44 (ga) of the Representation of the People Order, 1972, candidates are required to submit their returns within 30 days of the publication of the gazette notification of the elected members.

The gazette notifying the successful candidates was published on 13 February. Accordingly, candidates must file their expenditure statements within 30 days of that date, making 14 March the final deadline.

The Commission also reminded candidates to comply with the provisions outlined in Circular-18 issued during the election period, which mandates the submission of detailed expenditure accounts.

Officials said approximately 2,020 candidates contested the 13th Parliamentary Election.