The silence period for the vice-presidential election will come into effect from Tuesday midnight.

According to the Election Commission, the election silence commences from 48 hours before the day of voting and it will remain in effect until the voting centres are closed.

No election-related publicity and promotional activities are allowed to be held during the period, the Election Commission said in a statement.

Shaligram Sharma Poudel, spokesperson for the Election Commission, said the silence period aims to ensure the election is held in a free, fair, transparent and safe manner.

The election for a new Vice President is scheduled for March 17.

The final list of candidates published by the commission includes Asta Laxmi Shakya from the CPN-UML, Pramila Yadav and Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav from the Janata Samajbadi Party, and Mamata Jha from the Janamat Party.

Vice-presidential candidate Yadav has announced the withdrawal of her candidacy and has supported Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav of her party in the election.

Pramila’s candidacy, however, can’t be withdrawn officially as Election Commission on Sunday published the final list of candidates for the vice-presidential election.