The Election Commission (EC) has published the gazette notification for the new 'Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates, 2025' ahead of the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) Election. The rules were formally issued late Monday night.
The new code incorporates recommendations from the Election System Reform Commission and harmonizes them with the 2008 Code of Conduct, introducing several new and stringent provisions.
Key New Restrictions
Complete Poster Ban: For the first time, the new code completely bans the use of posters for election campaigning by all candidates, with the goal of curbing environmental pollution and controlling expenditure.
Other Prohibitions
- The use of drones for campaigning is entirely prohibited.
- Any form of campaigning activities conducted abroad is also banned.
Limits on Display Materials: Candidates are restricted from using more than 20 billboards, banners, or festoons in their campaigns.
Social Media and AI Control: Strict regulations have been imposed on social media campaigning. Specifically, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for dishonest campaign purposes is explicitly forbidden.
Mandatory Undertaking: All political parties and candidates are now obligated to submit an affidavit/pledge to the Election Commission promising to strictly adhere to the Code of Conduct.
Stricter Penalties for Violation
The new regulations include harsh punishments for non-compliance:
- Candidates who violate the rules may face up to six months in prison and a fine of BDT 150,000 (One hundred fifty thousand Taka).
- Political parties are subject to a fine of BDT 150,000.
- In cases of serious violation, the Election Commission has been granted the power to cancel a candidate's nomination following an investigation.
