With national election just weeks away, candidates are already filing complaints over alleged violations of the code of conduct. The Election Commission has issued updated rules for campaigning, social media use, and promotional materials. Here is a guide on what candidates can and cannot do.
Dos for candidates
Donations and Government Resources
Ensure no personal gifts, donations, or financial benefits are offered to individuals, groups, or institutions during the election period.
Do not agree to any reception from organisations or associations during campaigning.
All campaign activities must be separate from government, semi-government, or autonomous projects.
Public Meetings and Rallies
Submit your campaign schedule to the relevant authority in advance.
Obtain written permission for the date, time, and location of rallies and submit a copy to the local election office.
Notify the police at least 24 hours before rallies for traffic and safety arrangements.
Hold meetings only in locations that do not obstruct public movement.
Posters, Banners, Leaflets, and Billboards
Use materials that are biodegradable and environmentally safe.
Include only your portrait or party symbol on campaign materials.
Ensure billboard size does not exceed 16 feet by 9 feet and does not obstruct traffic.
Remove all campaign materials within 48 hours after voting.
Social Media
Register all social media accounts, IDs, and email addresses with the returning officer before posting any content.
Share election-related content responsibly with verified information.
Ensure all online campaigns respect voters, women, minorities, and other candidates.
Commitment Pledges
Submit a pledge at the time of nomination, confirming compliance with all rules of the code of conduct.
Cooperate with election authorities in case of any investigation into campaign violations.
Campaign Timing and Use of Sound Systems
Begin campaigning no earlier than three weeks before election day.
End all campaign activities 48 hours before voting begins.
Use up to three microphones or loudspeakers at one event.
Limit sound systems to between 2:00pm and 8:00pm and 60 decibels.
Polling Day Conduct
Only authorised election personnel, candidates, agents, and voters may enter polling stations.
Refrain from bringing campaign material, symbols, or attire inside the polling area.
Don’ts for candidates
Misuse of Resources and Gifts
Do not use government facilities, offices, rest houses, or post offices for campaigns.
Do not approve, announce, or inaugurate government projects during the election period.
Government officials must not be used or pressured to serve the interests of any political candidate.
Public Meetings and Rallies
Do not disrupt rival candidates’ meetings or rallies.
Do not hold rallies on busy roads or areas that obstruct public movement.
Do not hold election rallies abroad.
Posters, Banners, Leaflets, and Billboards
Do not paste materials on walls, trees, poles, vehicles, or public property.
Do not include other candidates’ images, symbols, or messages on campaign materials.
Do not deface, damage, or remove rivals’ materials.
Do not use plastic, PVC, or non-biodegradable materials.
Social Media
Do not use artificial intelligence or other tools to create misleading, false, or harmful content.
Do not post hate speech, defamatory content, or attacks targeting women, minorities, or opponents.
Do not share unverified or false information online.
Foreign-funded social media campaigns are prohibited.
Campaign Timing and Processions
Do not start campaigning before the designated period.
Do not hold processions with vehicles, motorcycles, boats, or helicopters for campaign purposes.
Do not distribute campaign materials from helicopters.
Violence and Intimidation
Do not engage in personal attacks, offensive statements, or incitement based on religion, ethnicity, gender, or community.
Do not use force, bribery, or coercion to influence voters.
Do not carry weapons, explosives, or firearms to campaign events or polling stations.
Election Violations and Penalties
Violations of the code of conduct are punishable under the Representation of the People Order, 1972; candidates may face up to six months in prison, fines up to Tk 1,50,000, or both.
Political parties may be fined up to Tk 1,00,000 for violations.
Serious violations can lead to disqualification from the election.
