Posters will no longer be allowed in upcoming parliamentary election campaigns: EC

The Election Commission (EC) has announced that the use of posters will be prohibited in campaign activities for the upcoming national parliamentary elections.

Instead, candidates and parties will be allowed to campaign through billboards, banners, handbills, festoons, and social media — with a strict ban on any foreign-funded digital campaigning.

Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah made the announcement following a commission meeting held Thursday at the Election Commission headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka. EC Secretary Md. Akhtar Ahmed and NID Director General SM Humayun Kabir were also present.

Sanaullah confirmed that the EC has finalised the draft Code of Conduct 2025 for political parties and candidates, which will come into effect following the amendment of the Representation of the People Order (RPO).

“This time, no posters will be allowed in campaign activities,” he said. “Instead, candidates will be able to use billboards, banners, handbills, festoons, and online platforms. Social media campaigning with foreign funding is strictly prohibited.”

Additionally to changes in campaign materials, the new code introduces several regulatory reforms. It includes provisions regarding the involvement of advisory council members of high-profile individuals, who will now be brought under campaign restrictions. Furthermore, candidates holding positions such as president or member of the managing committee of an educational institution will be required to resign before running for office.

The Election Commission also announced that returning officers will establish common platforms in each constituency, where all candidates will be able to present their manifestos publicly, ensuring equal opportunity and visibility. The revised code further incorporates disqualification criteria under Section 91/E of the RPO, aiming to strengthen accountability.

According to the EC, these new rules will be published in the official gazette soon. The commission says the updated code is designed to promote fair competition, transparency, and integrity in the upcoming parliamentary elections.