The Election Commission (EC) has finalised the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates–2025, banning posters entirely and imposing strict limits on billboards. The rules have already been sent to the Law Ministry for vetting.
Main changes:
- Posters in campaigns are completely banned.
- Leaflets, handbills, festoons, or banners made of rexine, polythene, plastic, PVC, or other environmentally harmful materials are also prohibited.
- Candidates may use a maximum of 20 billboards per constituency.
Deeper look:
- New billboard rules: maximum size 16x9 feet, cannot block public/vehicular movement or create safety/environmental risks.
- EC argues excessive billboard use drives up campaign costs, violates spending limits, and creates disorder.
- EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed confirmed the 20-billboard cap.
Behind the scenes:
- Earlier, some parties proposed keeping at least black-and-white posters, but the EC rejected the idea.
- The ban on posters was originally suggested by the Election System Reform Commission; the EC agreed.
- Banners and festoons have been newly defined.
More new provisions:
- Digital billboards may use electricity for lighting, but decorative lighting is prohibited.
- Campaign period fixed at three weeks.
- All candidates in a constituency must read manifestos from the same platform, organised by the returning officer.
- Election debates in the media allowed, but no personal attacks.
- Advisory Council members added to VVIP list—barred from campaigning for candidates or using government facilities like rest houses.
- Both candidates and parties must pledge to follow the code (previously only candidates).
- Serious violations may result in candidature cancellation under the RPO (a new addition).
Technology & environment restrictions:
- No drones or quadcopters in campaigns.
- Party general secretaries (or equivalent) may use helicopters, but cannot drop campaign materials from the air.
- No voter slip distribution within 180 metres of polling centres; maximum slip size set at 12x8 cm.
- Microphone use restricted to 2 pm–8 pm, sound capped at 60 decibels.
Social media & AI rules:
- Misleading or offensive content via social media or AI is completely banned.
- Social media account/ID details must be submitted to returning officers before campaigning.
- Campaigning on social media with foreign funds is prohibited.
Accountability & penalties:
- Candidates holding positions as chairperson or member of an educational institution's governing body must resign after candidature is finalised.
- Penalties for violations: fine increased to Tk1.5 lakh and up to 6 months' imprisonment.
What's next:
- Election schedule will be announced in December 2025.
- The 13th National Parliamentary Election will be held in the first half of February 2026.
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