Posters and Drone Use Banned in Election Campaigns

For the first time, the Election Commission (EC) has completely banned the use of posters in election campaigns. Strict restrictions have also been imposed on the use of drones and conducting campaigns from abroad.

The EC issued the new regulations in gazette form on Monday night (November 11). The regulations were drafted in coordination with the recommendations of the Election System Reform Commission and the 2008 Code of Conduct.

According to the regulations, poster use in election campaigns is fully prohibited to prevent environmental pollution and control costs. Additionally, no candidate can use more than 20 billboards, banners, or festoons.

The EC stated, “The use of drones and campaigning from abroad will be completely prohibited.”

Strict controls have also been introduced for social media under the new regulations. Campaigning using artificial intelligence (AI) for malicious purposes is fully banned.

From now on, candidates must submit a pledge to adhere to the code of conduct to the EC. For the first time, all candidates must also announce their election manifestos on the same stage.

Violations of the regulations carry strict penalties. Any candidate violating the code of conduct may face up to six months imprisonment and a fine of 150,000 taka. Political parties may also be fined 150,000 taka. In cases of serious violations, the EC has the authority to cancel a candidate’s nomination after investigation.

Khaborwala/TSN