The Election Commission (EC) has barred the production, distribution and use of caps, stickers, T-shirts, bags and shawls bearing election symbol of political parties in the lead up to the provincial and federal elections slated for November 26 and December 7.

The use of such promotional materials has been barred, the EC said in a statement on Sunday, “to make the upcoming provincial and federal elections independent, fair, impartial, transparent and cost-effective”.

The EC decided to impose a ban after it received information that such materials have been mass produced and distributed by political parties and candidates, the statement reads.

The election body on Sunday instructed the chief election officer, election officer, chief district officer and regional/district election officers in 77 districts to stop and control the production, distribution or display of such materials.

The EC has also directed the concerned officers to confiscate such promotional materials and take action against political parties, candidates and entities found violating the election code of conduct. (PR