The Election Commission has released the official code of conduct for the 2025 parliamentary elections, introducing strict new measures to ensure fair, transparent, and environmentally responsible campaigning.
The updated guidelines imposed a complete ban on the use of posters and set out detailed rules to uphold digital integrity and curb misuse of social media and artificial intelligence during the election period.
This set of guidelines, which was officially gazetted on Monday night, comes in preparation for the 13th Parliamentary Elections scheduled for February 2026.
The revised Code introduced significant changes to the way election campaigns will be conducted, with notable restrictions on traditional and digital campaigning methods.
In a bid to tackle environmental concerns, the use of non-biodegradable materials such as rexine, polythene, and plastic for posters, pamphlets, and banners is now prohibited.
Furthermore, the new rules ban the use of drones, helicopters, and other flying devices for distributing campaign materials, as well as the use of Artificial Intelligence for manipulative or malicious purposes.
One of the key features of the new regulations is a cap on the number of billboards candidates can use during the campaign period. Candidates are now limited to a maximum of 20 billboards per constituency, with each billboard restricted to a size of no more than 16 feet by 9 feet.
Another major development in the code of conduct concerns the use of social media in election campaigns.
Candidates and political parties are now required to submit their social media account details, including names, email addresses, and IDs, to the returning officer before the campaign begins.
This measure is intended to curb the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and other harmful content on social media platforms.
Additionally, the new guidelines prohibit the creation or dissemination of any content that could incite hatred, disfigure opponents鈥� images, or spread fabricated election-related information.
The code also restricts the use of sound amplifiers, including microphones and loudspeakers. The volume must not exceed 60 decibels, and campaigners are permitted to use amplification devices only between 2:00pm and 8:00pm every day.
In line with the EC鈥檚 focus on maintaining respectful and non-inflammatory campaigns, candidates are also prohibited from conducting political activities in places of worship, such as mosques, churches, and temples, as well as within government offices and educational institutions.
The code includes stringent penalties for violations. Those found guilty of breaking the new regulations could face a fine of up to Tk聽150,000 and a prison sentence of up to six months. Political parties could also be fined up to Tk聽150,000. In extreme cases, candidates may be disqualified from the race.
The updated code also now allows for the disqualification of candidates found guilty of serious violations, a provision that was previously absent.
Under Section 91 of the Representation of the People Order, the EC can revoke a candidate's nomination if the code of conduct is significantly breached.
In an effort to ensure that all parties comply with these new rules, the Election Commission has also introduced a requirement for candidates and their political parties to sign a commitment letter affirming their intention to adhere to the code of conduct.
Furthermore, political parties are now limited in their ability to use helicopters for campaign purposes.
Only the party president or general secretary, or their equivalents, are permitted to use helicopters, and they are not allowed to distribute any form of campaign materials from the air.
