EC directs TV channels to give equal airtime to all election candidates

The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has issued a directive to both state‑run and private television channels to ensure equal opportunity for all political parties and candidates in election‑related broadcasts ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the concurrent referendum.

In a letter sent on Wednesday (December 17) to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, signed by EC Public Relations Director Md Ruhul Amin Mollik, the commission reminded broadcasters of their role in creating a conducive and balanced electoral environment by offering fair and equal media access to all contestants.

The directive stresses that during the airing of programmes, interviews, talk shows or election dialogues, TV channels must take necessary measures to ensure that no political party or candidate is given undue advantage and that all have equal opportunity to present their views.

The EC also referred to Rule 25 of the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates in Parliamentary Elections, 2025, which prohibits candidates and party representatives from making derogatory, demeaning or personal attack statements during televised election dialogues.