EC sends list of 56 symbols for independent candidates

The Election Commission (EC) has circulated a list of 56 electoral symbols that may be allocated to independent candidates contesting the upcoming 13th National Parliament election.

The list was issued through an urgent directive from the EC Secretariat on Monday, ahead of the February 12, 2026 election, at a time when nomination submission is underway. The symbols are separate from those reserved for registered political parties and will be available exclusively to independent aspirants.

According to the directive, the EC has already shared with returning officers both the reserved symbols of registered parties and the list of symbols eligible for allocation to independent candidates.

The symbols available for independents include, among others, motorcycle, almirah, tractor, mug, camel, telephone, microphone, pitcher, dressing table, peacock, banana bunch, rice pounder, mobile phone, cup and saucer, lock, crocodile, plate, computer, building, bell, kite, horse, comb, shrimp, jug, ship, torchlight, tube well, double-decker bus, swing, turban, stool, rooster, railway engine, litchi, sewing machine, sofa, staircase, water tap, palanquin, fruit basket, football, sunflower, flower, deer, duck, heron, bucket, baby taxi, table, electric fan, table lamp, electric bulb, table clock, handshake, hookah and helicopter.

The EC clarified that if any of the listed symbols is later reserved for a newly registered political party, it will no longer be available for independent candidates.

The directive also includes updated details—names, designations and addresses—of presidents and general secretaries of registered political parties. Instructions have been issued to divisional commissioners, regional election officers and deputy commissioners to take necessary steps in this regard.