The Election Commission (EC) has imposed a new code of conduct for political parties and candidates ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election in February next year, aiming to enforce strict discipline and transparency in campaigning.
Under the new guidelines, the use of drones and posters during campaigns is completely banned. Candidates may install up to 20 billboards in their constituencies, each no larger than 16 feet by 9 feet. Only digital billboards may use lighting for display purposes; decorative lighting is prohibited.
Election manifestos must be announced from a single stage, with a designated day set by the returning officer for all candidates to present their declarations together.
The code also covers social media campaigning. Candidates or their representatives must submit details of their online platforms, including account information, to the returning officer before campaigning.
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for deceptive, manipulative, or harmful purposes—including spreading misinformation, hate speech, or altered content—is strictly prohibited.
Candidates and parties are forbidden from using personal attacks, inflammatory language, or exploiting religious, ethnic, or community sentiments. Content intended to mislead voters or damage the reputation of others, whether online or offline, is banned.
All parties and candidates are required to sign a pledge to comply with the code. Violations may result in up to six months in jail, a Tk 1.5 lakh fine for candidates, and an additional Tk 1.5 lakh fine for the party. The EC also has the authority to cancel a candidate’s nomination if violations are confirmed.
The 2025 code, finalised during the EC’s ninth commission meeting on 7 August and aligned with the 2008 version, incorporates recommendations from the Election System Reform Commission to strengthen transparency, fairness, and integrity in election campaigns.
LND/SAE
………………
For 24/7 Breaking News :
📰 English News : www.libertynewsbd.com
📰 বাংলা সংবাদ : bangla.libertynewsbd.com
📰 Facebook : facebook.com/libertynewsbd
📰 Facebook (বাংলা) : facebook.com/libertynewsbangla
📰 X (Twitter) : x.com/libertynewsbd
📰 Instagram : instagram.com/libertynewsbd
📰 YouTube : youtube.com/@LibertyNewsBD
📰 YouTube : youtube.com/@LibertyNewsPlus
