Election campaign begins: What candidates can and cannot do

Candidates for the 13th National Parliament elections received their symbols on Wednesday. The election campaign officially began today. According to the election code of conduct, the campaign will continue until 7:30 am on February 10, meaning that candidates can campaign for a total of 20 days.

The Election Commission (EC) has urged all candidates and those concerned to adhere to the code of conduct so that the election is free, fair and impartial.

Campaigning rules:

Candidates can campaign through various media within the stipulated time.

Hurting religious sentiments, making hateful statements or making ugly comments against opponents are strictly prohibited.

The use of posters is completely prohibited in this election, which is the first step taken in any election in the country.

Public meetings or gatherings can be organized, but the date and time must be notified in writing to the authorities at least 24 hours in advance.

Action will be taken if there is disruption to the movement of the public.

No meetings or gatherings can be organized by foreign individuals or political parties.

Restrictions on campaign materials:

Candidates can use a maximum of 20 billboards, not exceeding 16 feet in length and 9 feet in width.

Banners are maximum 10 feet × 4 feet, leaflets or handbills are A-four size. Festoons are maximum 18 inches × 24 inches.

Only symbols and portraits of candidates can be used in campaigning. The candidate's photo is maximum 60 centimeters × 45 centimeters.

Candidates of registered parties can only use the photo of the party leader in campaigning.

The length, width or height of the symbol will not exceed 3 meters.

Use of social media and technology:

Candidates, agents or representatives can campaign on social media.

Before starting the campaign, information including the name, account ID and e-mail of the candidate, party or page must be submitted to the Returning Officer.

Campaigning cannot be done using artificial intelligence (AI).

The dissemination of hateful, false, distorted, obscene or defamatory information is prohibited.

Other restrictions:

Proceses, public meetings or showdowns cannot be held using vehicles.

Torch processions, construction of arches, lighting or use of helicopters/aircraft cannot be allowed.

The name, picture or symbol of the candidate cannot be used on the voter slip.

Punishment and fine:

Violation of the code of conduct is punishable by a maximum of six months imprisonment or a fine of Tk150,000, or both.

In the case of a party, a maximum fine of Tk100,000.

If proven, the candidate's nomination may also be cancelled.

This strict provision of the code of conduct will ensure transparency and a peaceful environment for the election, in addition to keeping the candidates alert.